Jeff Larson
Album: Close Circle
Label: Ncompass
Tracks: 11
Website: http://www.jefflarson-music.com/

Lingering across the bay and the strip, the ghosts of Poco, America and the Eagles look down across the musical West Coast of California over a blend of country rock defined and refined since the late sixties. Instantly recognisable it's not a style that has changed much: a steady driving beat, melodic, great harmonies and impeccable musicianship. And Close Circle from LA musician Jeff Larson fits exactly into this mould and is just fine for all that. Blues has its form, as does all traditional music and Jeff Larson honours and respects those who went before.

There some great playing on here and well-crafted songs particularly 'Every Hour on The Hour' which is included with two mixes, and 'Arizona Again'. Each track sounds kind of familiar, like an old friend you've not seen for a while but you can pick up with where you left off when you meet again. And then somewhere along the conversation you realise they changed, there's something new about them and you're intrigued.

Close Circle is an album, I listened to and liked, Listened again and really appreciated. It won't sell a million, but if you like to drive an open top car on a warm sunny evening imagining the scent of colitas in your nostrils and the highway rolling out, you will probably love it.

Steve Bonham