More singer/songwriter talent is brought to us this month by the fine people over at Deep Elm. Chicago native Nathan Xander may have more than a few things in common with Dylan but his folksy tales with an alt-country twist exude honesty and sincerity. Two traits I can always appreciate in my music.
The album opens very strong with “October” and “Colors”, two songs that people like Jeff Tweedy and Gram Parsons would no doubt approve of. Unfortunately songs like “John Wayne” are present and accounted for as well and drag the whole thing down a bit. But then along comes a song like “Martyr’s Song” and all is forgiven. Or listen to “The Alchemist” and find yourself in a smoke-filled bar full of drunks after about 14 seconds flat.
If you’re into Americana or rootsrock, you might want to check out “The Fear”. It’s not a classic but the man has some serious songwriting chops regardless.
Score: 6.5 out of 10
http://www.deepelm.com
http://www.myspace.com/nathanxander
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