Tim Easton
Find Your Way
Black Mesa Records [2024]
Album Overview: Tim Easton is an American singer-songwriter known for his captivating blend of Americana, folk, and roots music. Born in Akron, Ohio, Easton’s musical journey began in the vibrant folk scene of Columbus, Ohio, where he honed his craft and developed his unique storytelling style. With influences ranging from Bob Dylan to Woody Guthrie, Easton’s music over the years has captured the essence of the American heartland, weaving tales of love, loss, and redemption with poignant lyricism and soulful melodies. His rich, gravelly voice and masterful guitar playing have earned him acclaim from both critics and audiences alike. Find Your Way, Tim Easton’s latest release, is a captivating musical odyssey of passion. Thematically rich, the album explores notions of turmoil, resolution, and introspection, drawing inspiration from both his surroundings and personal encounters. Each song unfolds like a chapter in Easton’s ongoing musical saga, beckoning listeners to accompany him on a reflective expedition through life’s ebbs and flows with every single line. At this point in Easton’s career, this album is a true showcase of all his talents.
Musical Style: Easton’s music has always defied strict genre boundaries, blending folk, indie rock, and Americana influences. Find Your Way continues this tradition, offering a rich and eclectic musical landscape. The album was produced by longtime friend, artist, and collaborator Leeroy Stagger at Neighbourhood Recorders, Victoria, BC, Canada. This, of course, is a perfect fit as Stagger pulled out the most natural sounding Tim over these 10 tracks.
Evolution of Sound: Over the years, Easton has refined his musical approach, drawing from his diverse experiences. Find Your Way highlights a matured and nuanced sound, reflecting his artistic growth. His delivery, quiet execution, and subtle telling of stories are why Find Your Way soars.
Artists with Similar Fire: Easton’s music shares kinship with storytellers like John Prine, echoing a commitment to narrative-driven songwriting. His fusion of folk and rock resonates with fans of Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Jason Isbell, and Jeff Tweedy.
Pivotal Tracks: Key songs on Find Your Way include the opening title track with its female harmonies from Jeanne Tolmie and one of my favorite lines when Easton sings, “All those corners that I cut just added to my debt. All these things I have to do are not burdens just yet.” “Little Brother” is a touching exploration of family dynamics that is easy to connect with if you have siblings, and the closer “By the End of the Night” is a memorable heartfelt love ballad. “Everything You’re Afraid Of” is a nice foot-tapper with a message that pushes you forward no matter what is in front of you or where you have been. “Jacqueline” is another upbeat track that has one of the catchiest choruses on the album when Easton asks, “Jacqueline, what’s the deal with your ever-changing mind? Jacqueline, turn the wheel, it’s only time on the line.”
Lyrical Strength: Lyrics have always been Tim Easton’s strength. Find Your Way is no different; in fact, they are the reason this record is so appealing. Find Your Way’s lyrics depict a journey through various emotions and experiences, touching on themes of self-discovery, love, regret, and redemption. It’s about navigating through life’s challenges, grappling with past mistakes, facing inner demons, and seeking solace in relationships and personal growth. Each song presents a snapshot of human struggles and resilience, woven with introspective reflections and a longing for connection. From moments of vulnerability to declarations of love, the lyrics encapsulate the complexities of the human experience with raw honesty and heartfelt sincerity. Tim could not have written this album 20 years ago – his life experiences and continued growth as a songwriter take Find Your Way to another level!
TIM EASTON REVIEW HISTORY
You Don’t Really Know Me (2021) / Paco & The Melodic Polaroids (2018) / American Fork (2016) / Haynes Boys: “ST” (2015) / Easton Stagger Phillips: Resolution Road (2014) / Not Cool (2013) / Before The Revolution: The Best Of 1998-2011 (2013)
TIM EASTON LINKS
Official Website | Facebook | Bandcamp | Black Mesa Records
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