It’s Okay Honey
True West, 2023
8/10
A mixed race, transgender poet Julian Talamante Brolaski makes a distinct version of Americana that tips its hat to classic country and western legends, and focuses much on healing.
“Racin In The Train” starts the listen with a swift and melodic version of country rock that gets pretty close to yodeling alongside Mark Schreiber’s quick drumming, and “Sittin In The Space” follows with a calmer approach that benefits from Mike ‘Slo-Mo’ Brenner’s lap steel and Brolaski’s fluid singing.
“Goin To Nashville” occupies the middle spot and uses plenty of twang for the thumping delivery, while “Buddy” is a dance floor ready rocker that displays David Laganella’s spirited electric guitar.
“Goodbye Brother” and “When I Go With You” exit the listen, where the former makes great use of warm vocal harmonies amid Boaz Kim’s well timed harmonica, and the latter finishes with a stirring intimacy which emits emotive singing from Brolaski alongside the pretty acoustic guitar.
An eclectic listen that can waltz cautiously just as it can get rowdy, the Classic Country lineage of the listen sure is appreciated and makes for a great time that comes with a poetic and insightful vision.
Travels well with: Mike Thomas- Diamonds; Scott Clay- Let It All Lay Bare