Martin Sexton
(Kitchen Table)
Forlorn folkies accompanying themselves on acoustic guitars are a fairly common breed, so the idea of an intimate live album by erstwhile Boston troubadour Martin Sexton doesn't exactly foretell anything exceptional. Neither does the fact that Sexton's already released several live recordings help heighten anticipation. But Sexton's more than your everyday singer/songwriter; he's a musician whose instrumental prowess often creates a stunning aural sheen, one that elevates his musical explorations into unexpected, and often exceptional, new realms.
Consequently, Solo succeeds despite its supposed self-confined parameters, and much of the reason falls to Sexton's ability to veer his set towards his Michigan audience? Happily though, Sexton needn't fall back on cheesy cheerleading tactics to rouse his crowds. A jaunty take on Billy Preston's "Will It Go Round In Circles" and several sprightly songs of his own - the upbeat opener "How Far I've Come," an aptly-titled "Happy," and the autobiographical "Failure" (later reprised in full band mode as one of two bonus tracks) - guarantee giddy vibes will abound.
Sexton's soulful side often runs interference with his folkie finesse, and on "Diggin' Me" and "Candy" his performances resonate on the strength of his dazzling guitar-play. The former finds him approximating a one man band via special instrumental affects, while the latter creates a modal overlay that simulates a raga-like refrain. Likewise, his emotional take on Prince's "Purple Rain" expands the atmospheric palette of the original, which is just another reason that this Solo soars.
Standout tracks: "Diggin' Me," "Candy," "Purple Rain" LEE ZIMMERMAN
