Sin & Redemption
Rock Ridge, 2019
9/10
A Nashville based singer-songwriter who has a penchant for both lush and intimate forms of Americana, though David Newbould might be a new name for most of us, his songwriting prowess on Sin & Redemption makes an instant and lasting impression.
The albums leads with the warm strumming and timeless melodies of “Sensitive Heart”, and the title track follows with a more rugged approach of flowing Americana as Newbould’s raw but tuneful pipes guide the rural fun.
Elsewhere, “Long Road To Barstow” finds the troubadour in a sparse setting of more country influenced instrumentation, while “Diamonds In The Dark” recruits roots rock with a fuller display of strings and gospel nods.
Deeper cuts shine, too, including the pretty nostalgia and bare beauty of “Love You Too Much (Henry’s Song)”, and “L.A. Dreams” sits firmly in today’s indie-folk with strong song craft. “Oh Katy (Just Gettin’ By)” ends the listen powerful and playful, with Newbould’s most pop friendly offering.
Now 8 albums deep into his career and with plenty of TV and film scoring as well, Newbould brings much talent and experience to the affair, and it’s pretty likely, if you’re like me, you’re going to be immersed in his stories, especially if names like Dylan, Tweedy and Earle mean anything to you.
Travels well with: Dawes- Passwords; Tony Lucca- Ain’t No Storm