The Long Haul
Self-Released, 2019
9/10
The Maine troubadour Mike Stapleton returns with more of this proficient folk-rock, as the DIY musician delivers poetic, wise and careful tunes with The Long Haul.
“Wander” starts the listen with lively folk ideas as Stapleton’s fluid pipes guide us through the timeless nature while frisky percussion adds much to the affair, and “Wheels” follows with an upbeat and rhythmic approach to the glorious setting.
In the middle, “Same Old Ride” uses soft strumming to its advantage on the retro and lo-fi atmosphere, while “Curtain Calls” flows with a more rugged spirit alongside subtle blues nods. “Bend Don’t Break”, one of the album’s best tunes, then glides with a warm, thoughtful delivery that reels us in with its emotive presence.
Near the end, “Far In The Distance” settles into a playful and adventurous execution, and “The Light That Came On” exits with just Stapleton’s expressive vocals against his deft guitar work on a singer-songwriter gem.
As he does with his entire discography, Stapleton offers a ‘name your price’ option at his Bandcamp, and rest assured that his meticulous song craft is worth not only every dollar spent but every minute invested, too.
Travels well with: The Rightly So- Vandura; Randy Lewis Brown- Red Crow