Barnes, Jamie – “Fallen Acrobat, the ” – [Silber Records]

While in general I’m perhaps not the world’s biggest appreciator of singer/songwriters, there’s no denying the talent this young man from Kentucky displays here on his debut release. For one thing, he plays all instruments himself (acoustic and electric guitars, banjo, piano, percussion, glockenspiel, toy piano, etc.). Also, his lyrics are first-rate; observant, ironic, and hopeful are just a few words that come to mind. I like the way his voice stays near the top of his vocal range, which fits the feel of the music very well. This record makes a nice enough first impression, then grows more impressive with each listen.