I had been behaving. I wasn't buying any new music off iTunes, I was just listening to what I had (I used to have a little bit of an obsession with buying new music). I've gotten a lot better, but when I heard the samples of this music on iTunes, I had to make an exception.
"Early in the Morning" is the perfect album to listen to while you're laying under a tree in a meadow somewhere. Don't know where one is? FIND ONE. :).
The album is about 50 minutes of absolutely wonderful, soulful acoustic folk. There's acoustic guitar, piano, and if my instincts are right.... wait for it.... I DO BELIEVE THERE'S SOME BANJO IN THERE.
The music is expertly executed; it sounds effortless, just an easy groove to sing along to in many places. In others, however, McMorrow pulls out the stops and jams in some great instrumental sections.
As great as the music is, however, the lyrics are even better. In almost each and every of his songs, McMorrow tells what sounds like a story somewhat based on his life - the songs just sound that personal and honest. They are really impossible not to invest in. Some of these songs are metaphorical (example: I think "Sparrow and the Wolf" is), and almost all of them pulse with a "small town, reflecting on the porch" feel. McMorrow might as well be in your living room with you.
Even more spectacular than the lyrics and the music is the McMorrow's voice. It's haunting, smokey awesomeness. There's not a whole lot else to say. The man's voice grabs you and doesn't let go. If I were to draw a comparison to someone else in the music world, I would say the other artist his voice resembles the most is Bon Iver, but it's smokier and more intimate, less etherial and more earthy. It's what sets this album apart. The man's also from Ireland. Just a side note, ten bonus points.
So, if you're in the mood for some good, old fashioned folksy music that will stick with you long after the last track has ended, check out this album.
My three favorite tracks are: "Sparrow and the Wolf," "We Don't Eat," and "And If My Heart Should Somehow Stop."
Here's a link to his Myspace!
http://www.myspace.com/jamesvmcmorrow
Until next time, please spread word of the blog and enjoy the music!
Andrew
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