Jonah Smith

Album Review

Mixing blue-eyed soul vocals with swampy Southern Americana, Jonah Smith taps into a distinctive and inviting singer/songwriter groove on his nationally distributed debut for the Relix label (he has two previous indie records). The sound is similar to that of the Band, reinforced by the appearance of that group's organist/horn player, Garth Hudson. Even though Hudson only officially contributes to one track, his presence looms large over the project. Still, this is very much Smith's album, and it is his songs and especially his warm voice — somewhat like a combination of the Band's Levon Helm and Richard Manuel — that makes these tunes come alive. Most songs ride a midtempo rhythm, barely breaking a sweat but connecting by sheer melodic force and Smith's charming, low-key singing. There is also a touch of Elton John's Tumbleweed Connection in the rootsy sound. The production and especially the sympathetic horn charts support the songs in supple and subtle ways. "Everything Is New," in particular, floats by like a dream you want to remember more of. Characters in Smith's songs are generally a sad lot, but all are searching for, and expect to find, better days. David Soler's guitar, especially his pedal steel, bolsters these songs without calling undue attention to itself. The unhurried quality of the album in no way makes it bland. Rather, these gorgeous songs drift on clouds of electric piano with traces of gospel, jazz, and blues added to the Southern singer/songwriter style. Smith's talented four-piece band supports the sound without overwhelming the material. Those familiar with the work of Randall Bramblett are encouraged to check out Smith, since both wade in similar waters. An extra track not listed on the back cover, "I Feel More Like I Did Back Then (Than I Do Right Now)," finds Smith edging into Dylan's late-'60s period. There is a hypnotic quality to this release and production that, like the best albums, stays on the back burner yet beckons the listener back for another spin.