From the Decker House - EP

Album Review

The six songs found on the Rosewood Thieves' debut, From the Decker House, are like old American postcards or love letters never sent. The countrified indie rock mix is an impressive look into the world of singer/songwriter Erick Jordan. He was just barely 20 when he composed these tracks, and his golden-hued touch is refreshing and uncomplicated among the current pack of new-millennium revivalists. With his heart on his sleeve, Jordan doesn't lose himself while honoring his influences, and songs such as the knee-slappin' honky tonk of "Diamond Ring" and the country-tinged day-tripper "Doctor" channel Jordan's sweet sincerity. "Lonesome Road" is another song like that; acoustic guitars delicately waltz around Jordan's warm hum while vocalese veteran Bob Dorough adds a bit of bounce on the piano for a summery clap-along. From the Decker House also includes performances by Otto Hauser (Devendra Banhart), Andy Cabic (Vetiver), Mike Daly (Whiskeytown), and Blake Hazard (the Submarines). Such an all-star cast adds to the Rosewood Thieves' playful innocence. Jordan taps into that exactly while giving his best stiff upper lip on the breakup number "Back Home to Harlem." The Rosewood Thieves succeed their first time out. The fundamentals of rock music go a long way here, and that's what makes From the Decker House the understated beauty that it is.