Man In The Maroon
Grind Ethos, 2021
9/10
The singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Korby Lenker returns with an 8th studio album, where the renaissance man offers 9 originals, a short story (he’s also an author) and a very adventurous cover.
“All In My Head” starts the listen with a playful version of indie-folk that’s not short on melody as spirited guitar work and punchy drumming highlights the mood, and “Crow Country” follows with swift banjo, where a unique form of Americana is both intimate and atmospheric.
Some of the best tricks reside in the middle, including the calm beauty of “What’s Wrong With Us”, where Lenker handles piano, while “Now I Once Thought That I Was Strong” flows with a singer-songwriter quality that emits a gospel influence in Lenker’s very capable hands.. “Christmas Rain” then gets a bit rugged as vivid storytelling enters the curious twist on holiday music.
Near the end, “Mose And Ella” is 14+ minutes of a live reading of an original short story, and “Moon River” exits the listen with a creative, dreamy interpretation of the classic that’s bare, heartfelt and about as distinct a version as you’re likely to find anywhere.
A road warrior who routinely plays 150 shows a year, forced time off the road in 2020 certainly contributed to this career highlight effort that’s an extension of Lenker’s live show, where his multifaceted skills illustrate a timeless, diverse and focused body of work.
Travels well with: Peter Mulvey- There Is Another World; Mark Erelli- Blindsided