The United State
Singular, 2020
9/10
Justin Wells cut his teeth as the frontman for the Southern rockers Fifth On The Floor, who enjoyed a well received decade long existence that included 4 strong albums. Now on his own, Wells returns with this sophomore solo effort, where his well thought out song craft isn’t short on rugged melody as he weaves in and out of rich textures.
Wells makes an impression immediately with the brief atmospheric pedal steel of “You’ll Never Know, Dear, How Much I Love You”, which segues into his warm vocals that steer a very soulful country template of “The Screaming Song”, as well as the bright alt-country of “No Time For A Broken Heart”.
Halfway through, “After The Fall” moves cautiously with much power in the organic display, while “It’ll All Work Out” recruits plenty of rhythm amid the playful delivery where intricate guitar enters blues territory. “Walls Fall Down”, the album standout, then flows with breezy melodies in the sort of timeless execution that reminds us of names like Petty, while injecting a chorus you won’t forget anytime soon.
Close to the end, “The Bridge”, the last formal track, is a dobro friendly tune with plenty of backing vocals while emitting aching beauty, and the soothing climate of “Farewell, Mr. Hopper” exits the listen with just 3 voices in a short burst of a gospel like hymn.
Somewhere between country, roots and Americana, Wells is nothing if not meticulous, and the strong lyrical content here helps makes The United State an adventurous, eloquent and exceptional listen that deserves much attention.
Travels well with: Adam Carroll- I Walked In The Shoes; Karen Jonas- The Southwest Sky And Other Dreams