Who You Were

Although both feet were firmly planted in his comfortable "Americana" playground, Tom Rhodes has managed to create a simply brilliant album that transcends any single category. From the comforting opener, "Crumbling Road", to the haunting vocals on "Embrace the Judas", to "Rye and Wrong" - an unabashed ode to alcohol-fueled mistakes that's absolutely dripping with Ennio Morricone goodness, 'Who you Were' is a musical tome of life lessons learned by a seasoned troubadour. The recent passing of his father inspired the collection of songs, as well as the final, title track, which is far less a dedication and more a thankful goodbye to his greatest storytelling influence. Simply put, this album will inspire you to look at who you are, by helping you learn to embrace who you were.

When I first listened I heard reminders of Ray Lamontagne, maybe Jack Johnson. But when I listened again, all I heard was Tom -- gorgeous orchestrations, a strong, literate soul desiring to share his perspectives on the passing of his dad. Don't miss this one.