Combining elements of classic folk and the type of acoustic guitar work that made people the likes of Jim Croce and James Taylor household names, Nemo James’ “The Minstrel†is a warm, yet beefy collection of 17 tracks that has its share of hits and misses, but never lacks polish and heart.
A former studio guitarist, James walked away from that world in order to focus on his own music. There’s a level of poetic beauty to a variety of tracks as James’ writing ability, combined with smooth guitar licks make for some tracks (The Poet and Marie are great examples of this) that draw the ears in and create their own world around the words. In a world encompassed by music with filler and pizzazz added in the studio, it’s obvious that he’s a natural talent.
That heart on the sleeve, no strings attached approach is the strongest element of the album. From stories on love and friendship and life, the entire collection feels like a conversation between James and you.
The album’s title track is easily the song with the most infectious lyrics and hook. Like most of James’ work, there’s a huge element of storytelling involved. With such a warm and clear voice, he’d be perfect on a children’s television show. It’s not a far off idea hearing him sing and play classics for a generation that never experienced them. There’s also a huge list of commercial opportunities with his guitar work. There’s are plenty of video games and television shows that would kill to have some of these tracks for a bevy of scenes.
But in here lies the problem. While he has a solid voice and his guitar work would fit in beautifully in a coffee house or wine bar, it’s not sexy enough to draw in your ears for long periods of time. As a result, the tunes are something that do a great job of fitting into a certain place and time, but never defines them. They don’t make you stop in your tracks, even if you’ll recognize the soul and spirit in James’ voice and guitar work. So while there’s nothing awfully about the album, it’s hard to find a standout track or one moment that truly grabs you.
In the end, James’ album is best served in its entirety, with a cup of coffee and a fleece blanket. That’s an experience that most music listeners won’t quite grasp, but don’t let that stop you from taking it all in, especially if soft, storied rock and folk is your favorite personal blend.
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