Love Is An Obstacle
West Of Philly, 2021
8/10
I suppose we’re used to plenty of Valentine’s themed music this time of the year, but Jared Feinman goes the opposite direction with an anti-Valentine’s listen that just might break your heart with its themes of tragedy, loss and the downsides to life.
Split into ‘clusters’ inside of sides, the double album places like minded songs together in a very diverse formula. Tracks like the lush “Inside A Reverie” emit a hazy, dreamy quality while at its core being a brutal post-break up song, while others like the piano and horn friendly “The Sinner’s Last Song” recruit timeless jazz qualities in a setting that’s quite melancholic and very eloquent.
Though Feinman is the focus on all these original tracks, a gospel choir joins him on the intimate “(Let’s Sing For) Love And Be Free”, while “Some Final Thoughts” strips the climate bare with just strings accompanying his expressive pipes.
The best tune here, “88”, recruits harmonica fills that give the mature setting a bluesy angle, though “All My Life” is a close second, as Feinman sounds like a seasoned vet on the soaring and orchestral display of emotion and power.
An artist who performs with a sage like demeanor that’s wise beyond his years (he’s not even 30 yet), Feinman is nothing if not forthright, and this often devastating but well crafted debut is an excellent starting point.
Travels well with: Forest Sun- Stubborn Breathing Heart; Mark Erelli- Blindsided