Music has the ability to make us feel. Much of the music I have heard over the duration on my life makes a point to look at life though rosy colored glasses making the grimmest of situations, emotions, feelings seem good. Some artists go over the top, some fall short, but in the case of Barrett Johnson's, In Case I Went Missing, I would say he plays it just right.In a time when the simplicity of music can be lost so easily in the studio, Barrett plays simply, speaks softly, and writes honestly. I have trouble comparing his music to that of Travis or the softer side of Coldplay because his substance is approachable and realistic to me, but sonically the similarities are there. The acoustic sound with plenty of layered vocals and instrumental arrangements contain a delicate interplay that makes several of the songs worth listening to on repeat.
This album has literally been the highlight of my musical journey this year. Perhaps because I feel it hits so close to home or perhaps because I know how great of a guy Barrett is, but regardless this gem is worthy of attention. Plus, if you want to feel really cool, you can go to any number of his shows in the LA/OC area and meet some incredibly fantastic people. Not to mention, the ever-wonderful Billy Kernkamp or Billy with The Last Campfire.
Always worth the night out. Always. Always. Always.
By the way, I know by know you are wondering how much I get paid for this, (answer: zero), but if you have a desire to look cool while you feel cool out on the town or at one of these shows. I highly recommend you stop by Billy's Vintage clothing store Denim Blue located in Huntington Beach on the North side of Beach Blvd. between Ellis and Talbert. It is by far the most plesant place I have ever shopped, hung out, been groped, etc.
