A good listen for the fall.
If you like contemporary American singer-songwriters–especially of the folk variety–then you’ll like this album. If you don’t, you won’t; it’s as simple as that. There’s nothing here that’s particularly revolutionary or groundbreaking, but as someone who loves artists like Josh Ritter and Sufjan Stevens I personally don’t think there’s anything wrong with that. The album is loaded with beautiful vocal harmonies, well-picked guitars, haunting pianos, and high-quality lyrics. Good for fall rotation, maybe coffee on a Thursday evening.
“Was A Time” is the clear standout and deserves some solid play. It manages to be upbeat and melancholy at the same time with tastefully-used harmonicas and the kind of lyricism that makes this a compelling record. “Ludlow” is quiet, contemplative, slow, and ethereal; there’s even a minor clarinet that really compliments the song. “If It Don’t Work Out” is almost hymn-like with a real strong shout-out-loud sing-along quality. “Middle Ground” is self-reflective and pretty; again, very singable with interesting instrumentation. “No Not Tonight” is marching and vocal with a determined beat–it’s not my personal favorite but I think it’d make a good radio track. Same goes for “Cold Comfort,” although it’s a little prettier and a little mellower. “Calico Alone” is a strong finish for the album: dark but not sad, more accepting, and not as predictable as it seems at first.
Overall this album won’t shake foundations or blow away expectations but if you like the genre then you’ll like this.
Recommended if you like: Josh Ritter, Ryan Adams, Cass McCombs, and Sufjan Stevens
Recommended Tracks: “Was A Time,” “Middle Ground,” “Ludlow,” and “If It Don’t Work Out”
Reviewed by Will Orlowski on September 18, 2014