Pretty Free
Self-Released, 2020
8/10
The family man Justin Farren returns with his 4th album that he actually recorded in his shed while playing the bulk of the instruments himself to songs he’s been carrying around in his head. Perhaps an unorthodox way to approach making a record, the Sacramento resident has a long history of doing things unconventionally, which is part of the charm of Pretty Free.
“A Little Less Time” starts the listen quietly with Farren’s warm vocals against a gentle guitar, and “Eyes Be Healed” follows with subtle percussion as vocal acrobatics from Farren contribute vivid storytelling which builds into a louder display of singer-songwriter prowess that parallels the greatness achieved by his neighbor, Jonah Matranga.
Closer to the middle, “There’s No Such Thing As A Bad Day” moves swiftly in its rootsy, shuffling appeal, while “My Uncle Bill” emits sublime beauty in its folk-rock climate. “Mama”, one of the album’s best, then resides in ballad territory with a hushed execution where bouts of fuller moments illustrate just how much talent is present.
Farren keeps the song craft strong until the end, where “Worthy Of The Sea” is pure elegance and creativity, and “Last Year Was The Best Year” finishes the listen piano-friendly, reflective, intimate and with an appearance from his daughter on vocals.
There’s plenty of cameos from friends of Farren here, including the always impressive Anna Tivel, and although he truly defies comparison, we can use a modern day version of Woody Guthrie as a reference point, which I doubt few people will have a problem with.
Travels well with: Anna Tivel- The Question; Damien Jurado- In The Shape Of A Storm