Squirrels
7 Bridges, 2025
9/10
The veteran singer-songwriter Jubal Lee Young is joined by Christian Sedelmeyer, Charlie Pate, Jeff Taylor and producer Markus Stadler for these 16 diverse songs.
The title track opens with Young’s distinct vocals alongside Stadler’s flowing banjo in the melodic and rootsy climate, and “Don’t Be A Dickhead” follows with a calmer spirit, where cozy guitar and Pate’s playful bass suit the authentic spirit and solid advice.
Further along, “Love Happens” makes great use of Sedelmeyer’s touching fiddle via the romantic mood that tugs on the heartstrings, while “Miserable” isn’t exactly a downer, as Taylor’s rich accordion adds much to the layered album highlight.
Deeper yet, “Dumb Luck” allows for Young’s vivid storytelling to be complemented by the mountain-esque instrumentation that’s got plenty of energy, and “Welcome To Nashville, Asshole!” exits with fiddle, banjo, guitar and Young’s forthright wordplay that should be require listening for anyone heading to Music City.
Young is nothing if not eclectic, and his blending of bluegrass, country, folk, old-time, Americana and roots makes this 6th album one of his best yet.
Travels well with: Ryan David Green- Off And Running; Jubal Lee Young- Wild Birds Warble