Mike Stevens

Breathe In The World, Breathe Out Music

Stony Plain, 2022

8/10

Listen to Breathe In The World, Breathe Out Music

Mike Stevens knows his way around a harmonica, and here along with a small handful of musicians and a choir, he navigates around many genres and even lends his vocals to 4 tracks, something he’s been hesitant to do in the past.

“Like A Little Bird” opens the listen with gorgeous vocals from Polly Harris to complement the soulful harmonica and acoustic guitar from Jeff Getty, and “Watermelon Pie” follows with a swift display of spirited harmonica and Kevin Breit’s meticulous electric guitar guiding the cozy Americana.

Further on, “Bad In A Good Way” benefits much from Art Hratchian’s skilled drumming as plenty of rhythm unfolds in a swampy climate, while “Jesse’s Request” allows Stevens’ moody harmonica to guide the more haunting delivery.

Near to the end, “Devil’s Ride” is quite rugged and full of gritty singing from Stevens, and “Put Your Phone Down” welcomes mandolin from Andrew Collins in the jam band style finish that meshes drums, harmonica and subtle vocals, too.

Stevens has recently been fighting late stage Lyme disease, which came with troubles such as walking and functioning cognitively. This forced him to play music differently, and this reactionary approach to his craft and makes for a highlight release in a 35 year career, which is no easy task.

Travels well with: Ryan Lee Crosby- Winter Hill Blues; Jefferson Ross- Southern Currency