Jonathan
Foster – Sabbatical (Shea B Lab Records)
California based singer-songwriter Jonathan Foster
mixes up folk, acoustic blues, country-rock and gritty lyricism to excellent
effect on his new long-player, “Sabbatical”.
The result of a monthly songwriting and recording
project, “Sabbatical” accidently morphed into an album – his first studio
effort - and collects a group of songs that reflect the changes happening in
his life during the period in question - while simultaneously paying tribute to
fellow songwriter Sam Bragdon.
Bragdon died in 1983, and on “Sam” Foster imagines a
series of scenarios, which are fictional, but roll along beautifully. He also
covers a couple of Bragdon’s songs, namely “Box of Ribbons” and “Too Much Love
(Much Too Late)”. Both are chock full of clever wordplay, vivid imagery – the
former, especially – and contain rich melodies and hooks aplenty. Why haven’t I
heard of him before?
Fortunately, Foster’s songs are just as interesting
with an emphasis of deft wordplay and tunes that dig deep. He begins with the
dramatic “Kingsnake”, where a shadowy aura
dominates the mood, and brings to mind Joe Henry’s early records. “Sevens” is muscular and vital, and delivered with real
power – both the music and words – and “Peaks &
Valleys” is a road song that’s touching and uplifting, with a gentle
heart.
Guitarist Ron
Gillette provides sterling support throughout the ten tracks, adding depth and
momentum, and the full-blooded production does much to bring Foster’s artistic
vision to fruition.
Phil S.
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