Love Hope Trust
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
The Americana singer-songwriter Roger Street Friedman returns with a 4th album, and it’s another fantastic collaboration with the guitarist, producer and songwriter Larry Campbell, as they examine the fears, joys, and sorrows that occur in everyday life.
The title track opens the listen with upbeat and rhythmic country rock that’s not short on melody, and “Mother And Son” follows with a calmer pace of warm, poetic Americana where Friedman’s cozy pipes are quite stirring.
Closer to the middle, “About You” enters darker areas of bare folk-rock that’s quite emotive, while “In The Summertime” recruits pedal steel, fiddle and mandolin for the intimate and soulful album highlight.
Further still, “I Want Her To Know” is a piano fueled ballad that’s heartfelt and builds into a lush climate, and “Cut Your Losses” exits with country, folk, Americana and roots meeting at a timeless intersection of cautious yet adventurous song craft.
Friedman penned these tunes during the pandemic and onward, and they are as diverse as they are relatable, and welcome Jason Crosby (keyboards), Teresa Williams (backing vocals), Lucy Kaplansky (backing vocals) and Gil Goldstein (accordion) for the sincere, wise and charming record.
Travels well with: Mark Erelli- Lay Your Darkness Down; John Fullbright- The Liar