Roots
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
The Wisconsin artist Andy Hanson pens 10 folk and Americana tunes, where a very sincere and timeless debut makes an indelible impression.
The powerful and intimate “Foresight” opens the listen with Hanson’s expressive voice and fluid acoustic guitar, and “Rose Blossoms” follows with spirited harmonica that complements the poetic storytelling.
“Roots” and “Maybe” occupy the middle tracks. The former uses warm brass amid the crisp drums and deep singing, while the latter, which is the album highlight, is a rich and cozy duet of touching folk song craft.
Residing close to the end, “Hard Truth” has Hanson’s diverse pipes exploring the introspective mood, and “All The Way” exits with breezy guitar, gentle melodies and smooth singing that tugs on the heartstrings.
A somewhat therapeutic effort, Hanson looks back at his formative church years and the turbulence of childhood, and it makes for a relatable and memorable first record that can draw comparisons to Bob Dylan, Drew Holcomb or Jeffrey Martin.
Travels well with: Jared McCloud- Vacancy; Chris Murphy- The Red Road