Released 18th May 2009 - ANTI-Records

As we finally appear to have the beginnings of a decent summer, it seems only apt that this album be released in line with the foraging of the factor 25 and mirrored aviators.

Any distinct difference between this record and Jason Lytle's previous output as the lead singer and songwriter of Grandaddy is a tough one to gauge. The vocals are still delightfully mellow, still reminding the listener of Neil Young in his deepest daydream and although Grandaddy could never be accused of having a sense of urgency, Lytle manages to find an even lower gear with Yours Truly, The Commuter.

The title song sets off the album with 'Don't Worry Baby' optimism. The keyboard and string arrangement compliment Lytle's procrastination. Next track 'Brand New Sun'is more guitar driven and would make a suitable bed-partner for 'El Caminos In The West' or 'The Crystal Lake' (from Sumday and The Sophtware Slump respectively). Similarly, It's The Weekend could be Now It's On in a different key.

Lytle departs from the shadow of his former band with the slower paced melancholic 'Ghost Of My Old Dog' and 'I Am Lost' whilst 'Furget It' and 'This Song Is The Mute Button', with their sublime vocal arrangements, serve as ghostly interludes.

With You're Too Gone, we're in full blown Alt-Folk Elliot Smith territory, a lament of opportunities passed ,beautiful in it's simplicity. The final two songs are almost Floyd-Like. 'Here For Good' could be The Beatles' 'Because' if it'd found it's way onto Wish You Were Here.

The biggest benefit of Lytle going solo has been the change in the lyrical content. Gone are the conceptual, out-there subjects and instead it's love, sunshine and yearning. More please. Don't take so long next time...

(8.5/10)

Posted In Album Reviews, May 23 2009. Words - Tony