“Welcome To The Edge Times”
Walksly, 2019
8/10
Listen to “Welcome To The Edge Times”
An esteemed Broadway actor for well over 2 decades now, these days Jon Patrick Walker is also quite interested in songwriting, and this 3rd album is his most personal yet, consisting of solo recordings, some of which were made while out on tour for Hamilton.
The title track starts the listen soft and reflective with warm acoustic strumming and Walker’s cozy vocals, and “We Won The War” follows with a raw folk tune tinted with darkness.
Further along, “Angelina Of The Sky” offers ‘60s nods in the bare Beatles influenced setting, while “The Mystical Ballad Of Gregory Jim” uses strategic keys and retro rhythm on the intimate and affectionate highlight.
Deeper into the listen, “Like A Rose” delivers some of the best acoustic strumming with summery harmonies and quirky percussion, and “(Meet Me At The) Delaware Water Gap” brings finger snapping, hand clapping fun to the most playful tune on the listen. “Blues For My Baby” ends the affair with a blues spirit amid a calm setting where harmonica and soulfulness are in attendance.
Certainly an edgy listen, Walker’s stripped down approach leaves no room for overproduction as he creates lyrically strong and musically diverse song craft that’s as tender as it is timeless.
Travels well with: Dave Mason- Alone Together; Ben Davis Jr.- Suthernahia