Loneliness Knows My Name

Album Review

Patrick Park adds to his lovestruck songbook with the release of Loneliness Knows My Name. The Under the Unminding Skies EP clearly defined Park's honesty as a songwriter, and this studio full-length builds upon love's common lot. He's unassumingly sweet without being clichéd, in turn allowing Loneliness Knows My Name to cast a charm without moping. Once again, Park plays all instruments and sings every song, and his country/folk/pop sound is uncontrived. Such an effort is impressive, and Park isn't overly earnest in crafting the perfect song. Loneliness Knows My Name comes together naturally due to Park's lyrical simplicity and, with that remedy in mind, a good deal can be expressed. Heartbreak leaves Park tattered and torn on "Your Smile's a Drug" and "Something Pretty." The bluesy strut of "Sons of Guns" is similar in spirit, but dark-colored in tone. Languishing in passion can't last too long; the pain's too much and the gospel trio of Rose Stone, Maxi Anderson, and Alexandra Brown on the soulful "Bullets by the Door" lets love come full circle with a glossy finish. Eventually, Park comes to accept the fickle ways of adoration, and Loneliness Knows My Name takes it all in stride for an enjoyable listen.