Not Changing
Precedent, 2019
8/10
A Seattle native who has spent most of his time in New York City, LA, or Washington, Jim Basnight has enjoyed a 40+ year career playing music, where this 2019 album is a particularly bright spot for the guitarist and singer.
“Code To Live By” starts the listen with Basnight’s warm acoustic guitar and flowing vocals that are met with Dave Warburton’s crisp drums for some fluid folk-rock nods, and “Not Changing” follows with spoken word, where Garey Shelton’s precise bass complements the cozy melodies.
Further along, “Suicide Evening” does bring a darker spirit that benefits much from Steve Aliment’s well timed backing vocals, while “Never Get Lost” places Bruce Hazen on electric guitar for the rugged and rich album highlight that approaches alt-rock.
Arriving near the end, “You Never Cease To Amaze” offers a punchy and soaring demeanor that’s anthemic and driving, and “Living The Way I Want” exits with Jay Phillips’ spoken word intro that leads into bright and dynamic instrumentation which illuminates Basnight’s timeless brand of rock.
A memorable and energetically delivered batch of tunes that reside somewhere between indie-rock, power-pop and adult alternative, Basnight and his companions don’t disappoint.
Travels well with: Stephen Kellogg- Blunderstone Rookery; The Tragically Hip- Phantom Power