Seeds

Since Martin Sexton's prior studio outing Wonder Bar came out seven years before Seeds, some consider this a comeback. Fair enough, but also consider that upon meeting the right person, seven years can just fly by. In the bubbling and rootsy opener "Happy," Sexton sings of loving every minute that he spends with his soul-mate: The fellas are gonna have to understand/ And tip their hats to the man who scored. "Thought I Knew Ya" continues on the same sunny path with help from a musty old Wurlitzer pounding out soulful chords as Sexton croons about the fleeting flings endured before meeting his true love. The gospel-steeped piano ballad "Wild Angels" downshifts as Sexton recalls both Otis Redding and Van Morrison, emoting amorously about holding onto his woman during tumultuous times. The festival friendly cover of Billy Preston's "Will It Go Round In Circles" sounds like a Hootie & The Blowfish b-side, but "I'm Here" rebounds with some Beatlesque pomp and lyrics that further proclaim his undying devotion for that special someone. Sexton serenades his woman throughout, so maybe Seeds is more of a gift from the heart than a comeback album.