Diamonds
Self-Released, 2023
9/10
The rising country/Americana artist Mike Thomas had big dreams when he moved to Nashville many years ago, but that turned into a decade long break from songwriting. His interest in music never waned, though, and a return to playing live started in 2017 brings us to this sophomore album that is a personal and diverse effort which recruits some excellent players.
“Room On The Dance Floor” opens the listen with expressive singing and warm guitar from Thomas, as Mark Huhta’s gorgeous pedal steel adds much to the melodic climate, and “In Your Arms Again” follows with a big, lush appeal that welcomes David Colella’s crisp drums to the punchy delivery.
In the middle, the intimate demeanor of “When The House Is Flush” benefits much from Tres Sasser’s skilled bass and the poetic singing, while the rockin’ “Tryin’ Ain’t Enough” is flawless country rock that makes great use of Donald Bright’s electric guitar.
“Daddy’s Blue Collar” lands near the end and shuffles with a dance floor ready spirit that employs Tania Elizabeth’s fiddle superbly, and “Out Back” exits with a dreamy vision of timeless country sounds that showcases Thomas’ inviting voice and breezy songwriting.
Thomas takes influences from names like Prine, Dylan and Haggard, and his thoughtful and sincere songwriting certainly runs parallel to those legends. Though he never saw his ‘big break’ in the early 2000’s, he’s making some great modern Americana now, and we’re all better off for it.
Travels well with: Scott Clay- Let It All Lay Bare; Julian Taylor- Beyond The Reservoir