Overall, a pleasant, if not particularly noteworthy album, marked by bouncy melodies and bright guitar work. Acoustic guitar is the main instrument here, and it is abundant on all the tracks. Clay played all the guitars himself and so can take credit for the steely guitar lines that hold most of these songs together. The problem with the consistency in the instrumentation is that most of the songs sound alike, making it a challenge to find distinguishing features, although there are a few which stand out.

"More Than a Picture" is notable for a buoyant chorus melody which evokes John Mayer in "Daughters" mode. "Shadow," features a steady, even groove which builds slowly...really slowly. The song doesn't peak until almost three minutes in, by which time the anticipation of the payoff has already passed. "Reality," the penultimate track, is anchored by some clean drumwork and ends in a coda featuring jazzy saxophones and a jangly guitar solo.

This album is good. Not great, but good (and short at only seven tracks). Throw it in if you're in a blah mood and you'll smile. Overall, the lyrical tone is positive and non-threatening, which I consider to be a plus in this day and age. Clay proves himself to be a talented singer and songwriter. Time will tell if this album leads to greater things for him.

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- www.movievine.com review by © Copyright Jay Doughty


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