Gravity, Grace and the Moon

Singer-songwriter Jeff Talmadge works and writes in a vein similar to Townes Van Zandt and Guy Clark, using a minimal amount of words to convey a larger and thoughtful message. Photograph is such an example, a strong acoustic opening that is enjoyable and relaxing. House On Fire opts for a rougher, grittier sound that grows on the listener, particularly with the electric guitar that kicks in during the second verse and Karen Mal's pretty harmonies. Talmadge gives his first stellar performance on Interstate Blues, a song which brings to mind Mark Knopfler and The Nottinghill Billies. The sparse instrumentation of the song is its selling point, particularly the brushes used by drummer Paul Pearcy. Other influences can be found on Little Dress, which resembles Not Dark Yet by Bob Dylan. Missing the mark somewhat is Inside The Brackets, a track where Talmadge speaks the lyrics more than sings them. The guitar playing thankfully atones for any shortcomings. Chasing Grace departs from the singer-songwriter mold with a larger, up-tempo sound while keeping to his strengths. Some Celtic touches can be found on Everything I Know courtesy of Chip Dolan's accordion. Talmadge goes for a swinging folk pop sound on If I'd Known You Were Coming, bringing to mind Australian folk trio The Waifs. Perhaps the best track is Rose Tattoo, a slow yet melodic piano-driven narrative about the passing of time. With I Held A Penny, Talmadge proves that he can more than hold his own against Austin's glut of singer-songwriters.