Jim James has been the primary songwriter for My Morning Jacket since the band’s formation in 1998. For his second solo album, Eternally Even, James explores a more subtle sound, one heavily informed by soul and psychedelia. Thoughtful lyrics that sometimes speak on matters at hand (“If you don’t vote, it’s on you-not me” in “Same Old Lie,” and the album dropped a day before election day) accompany raw-but-calming arrangements, with chill melodies and atmospheric textures working together for a satisfying listen. The easy favorite here is “Here in Spirit,” with “Hide In Plain Sight” and the aforementioned “Same Old Lie” also deserving many replays. Also check out the vintage soul-leaning “The World’s Smiling Now,” or the contemplative “We Ain’t Getting Any Younger” parts 1 & 2 (pt. 1 has no vocals but very powerful nevertheless).

• black vinyl pressing
• housed in gatefold sleeve
• includes giant foldout poster
• music label:ATO Records 2016

reviewed by heloim 12/2016

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