Thursday, March 18, 2010

Album of the Week: This Empty Northern Hemisphere by Gregory Alan Isakov, Gregory Alan Isakov

While engaging in my weekend tradition of browsing amazon.com MP3s for superfluous selections, I came across a lovely artist known as Gregory Alan Isakov for the first time. I always get a bit giddy when I randomly strike music gold...especially when it is tucked between albums that make better paper weights than examples of true artistry. I'm a huge fan of indie folk, which goes without saying, but that does not mean that I turn a deaf ear to album imperfections, or inferior artists just because it is one my favorite musical genres. There are indie folk albums that have left me wanting for a show of unique lyrical craftsmanship, though I must admit they've been few and far between recently. when I hear a great one, however, I know it. ;-) This little album by Isakov just undulates with soothing vibes and simple compositions that afford mental relaxation after a long day. As I listen to the tracks, I imagine myself on my back porch with a tasty adult beverage in my hand after the sun has set, peacefully gazing upon the stars and night sky. This is one album that I can put on and play through almost any evening, no matter the occasion and instantly be in a mellow mood. The album's modest, genuine melodies are calming to me, and the occasional sprinkle of tight guest harmony vocals by Brandi Carlile and a dash of lyrical cello wrap up the little package neatly for me. This is one artist to watch, if not already on your radar. There aren't any tour dates in this area listed on Isakov's official web site, but there's hope in me yet that he will wonder 'round this away before the end of the year. Give the album a listen and let me know what you think. I would love to hear your feedback!

Posted via web from Singingcello

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