Late Bloomer
Mad Diamond, 2022
8/10
The Indianapolis resident Brett Wiscons balances the best parts of roots rock with pop sensibilities across these 10 diverse tracks, where Niko Albanese (drums); Steven Potaczek (keys, accordion); Mark Bryan (mandolin); Megan Campbell, Rachel McGoye, and Sarah Scharbrough McLaughlin (background vocals); Craig Shields (saxophone); Seth Jenkins (slide guitar); Kadell Randle Jr. (keys); and Mark Evitts (string arrangements) help him flesh out the pandemic record.
“Vertical City” gets the listen started off with energetic and thumping country rock, where Wiscons displays both melody and grit, and “Walk Tall” continues with warm piano and poetic singing that’s heartfelt as a very soulful climate builds with much power.
“Collection Of Hearts” occupies the middle spot and brings stirring intimacy amid some gospel leanings, while “When You Can’t Breathe” surrounds George Floyd’s death and showcases Wiscons’ strong attention to detail and a meticulous guitar solo that embraces some classic rock nods.
Close to the end, “French Café (Inside A Dream)” is indeed a bit dreamy and meshes cozy keys, quick drumming with Wiscons’ diverse pipes, and “October” exits the listen with eloquence and mood being key in the timeless and memorable finish.
A full time musician since 2008, Wiscons makes music that runs parallel to Andy Grammer, Edwin McCain, Hootie & the Blowfish, Gavin DeGraw, and whether you're an unwavering fan or a first time listener, you’ll find much to enjoy across this authentic and vulnerable body of work.
Travels well with: Jack Barksdale- Death Of A Hummingbird; Jon Tyler Wiley- The Longing