Jefferson Berry

Dreams Of Modern Living

Self-Released, 2023

8/10

Listen to Dreams Of Modern Living

Jefferson Berry makes quite an impression with this first solo album, where his guitar and vocals flow alongside the substantial wordplay that includes a couple of covers, too.

“Locks And Guns” opens the listen with warm acoustic strumming alongside Berry’s expressive and eloquent vocals, and “Sleeping In Public” follows with lyrics surrounding homelessness that emits a cozy and thoughtful folk climate.

Further along, “Come Down In Time” is a very thoughtful interpretation of the Elton John song that’s poetic, while “Rendezvous With Destiny” discusses love lost with a dreamy, romantic demeanor that’s universally relatable.

“The Ballad Of Sammy Rodriguez” and “Water In The Well” exit the listen, where the former is full of rich melodies and diverse singing where Berry’s range is explored, and the latter is a quicker, upbeat display of vivid storytelling and timeless folk songwriting.

Berry has made plenty of great music with his band, the Urban Acoustic Coalition, and this more stripped back version of his song craft is equally impactful, memorable and necessary for the acoustic guitar inclined.

Travels well with: Jay Carlis- Alive In The Radio Age; Cabin Dogs- On The Creek