Jimmy Livingstone
Album: One Eye Open, One Eye Closed
Label: Townrow
Tracks: 10
Website: http://www.jimmylivingstone.com

London based singer-songwriter Jimmy Livingstone releases his debut album in March, inspired by a life-changing escape from a car accident and some years spent living in Los Angeles. The LP has a distinct Americana/Country music vibe, delivered in a deep baritone that suggests a certain authority to his words.

Album opener 'Getting By' sets the tone with an acoustic based track reminiscent of Neil Diamond's later output. Lead single 'Desert Song', an upbeat track with a decent momentum, follows and marks a decent start to the album as a whole - solid songs based on evergreen roots traditions and stronger for it.

The real highlight of the album, however, comes later. The mid-section, tracks 5, 6 and 7 of the album, are the strongest on offer and mark the peak of the release. 'Black Country Girl', linked back to Livingstone's midlands roots, is a nice change of pace which features a subtle horn section and hammon organ. Next, 'Useless Man' has a strong percussion based opening followed by a nice driving beat. Finally, 'Lady of the Flowers' has a nice, mellow acoustic flow to it. This three song sequence marks the high point of the release as a whole.

All in all, this is a solid LP for fans of the genre, and it's good to see new faces throwing their hat into the country ring. Hopes are high for Jimmy Livingstone's next installment.

By Dennis Hue
http://labelledindependentmusicpr.com/