Simpson & Banks
Self-Released, 2023
8/10
The brainchild of singer, composer and guitartist Drew Zieff, as Jake Swamp And The Pine, the Boston artist makes for a very literate and timeless debut in the area of folk/Americana, where the highs and lows of life are expressed eloquently.
“Drive, Drive, Drive” starts the listen with raw, yet melodic roots rock that’s powerful and emotive, and “Go By Darkness” follows with a calm intimacy that comes with vivid storytelling and warm strumming which builds into a radiant version of Americana.
Halfway through, “Moving Day” showcases Zieff’s gritty song craft that’s still quite graceful and welcomes playful drumming and a mountain-esque flavor, while “Empty Stomachs & Bloodshot Eyes” lands in folk-rock territory that’s busy, textured precisely and emits a contagious energy.
Approaching the end, “Don’t Be Afraid Of Sundays” recruits a soulful and soaring album highlight that's musically bare initially and musically cozy, and “Lullaby” exits with a brief, very primitive moment of stripped back songwriting.
Zieff brings along members of Darlingside and past/present members from Adam Ezra Group, plus others, and his heartfelt, sincere and ruggedly pretty delivery will certainly impress fans of modern roots/folk/Americana.
Travels well with: Rachel Sumner & Traveling Light- Rachel Sumner & Traveling Light; Austin Mayse- Bridges And Kerosene