Love, Time & Mortality
Self-Released, 2024
9/10
Listen to Love, Time & Mortality
Mike Montrey and his band bring Americana, Soul and Rock’n’Roll into these 10 harmonic and poetic tracks that are both wise and timeless.
“Stained Glass Window Panes” starts the listen with Montrey’s gruff voice and warm guitar alongside Nicole Scorsone’s graceful violin for much beauty, and “Holdin’ On To Nothin’” follows with John Ginty’s well timed keys that suit the emotive and powerful delivery.
Halfway through, “Cimarron County” benefits much from Jen Augustine’s gorgeous voice and Santo Rizzolo’s scrappy drumming, while “The Devil Caught Me Napping” is a thicker display that makes great use of Mike Noordzy’s upright bass and Montrey’s fluid piano.
Close to the end, the meticulous guitar of “Take Me Home” offers a mesmerizing and soothing climate, and Dylan’s “Emotionally Yours” exits with dreamy organ, eloquent vocals and a rare intimacy.
A well thought out effort that’s strong on storytelling, Montrey and company surround tales of the human condition with sincerity for this atypical version of folk and Americana that you won’t soon forget.
Travels well with: Mac Leaphart- Motel Breakfast; Tai Shan- Wildflower Moon