After several years spent performing as a guitarist for Kris Delmhorst and Todd Thibaud, Jabe Beyer returns with Where are We Going & When Do We Get There, his fourth solo release. I’ve got my own question for New England guitarist Jabe Beyer: why did we have to wait so long for his latest release? Where are We Going & When Do We Get There is a beautiful collection of songs that highlights the splendor of Beyer’s songwriting. Each track captures a sense of melancholy yet maintain a sense of dignity. Over it all, Beyer’s voice has a mournful quality to it that only heightens the experience.
The album plays as a cohesive song cycle, a noble feat in a Top 40 and iTunes world. Although Beyer mines his tradition strengths in country and acoustic-based rock, he also stretches himself to reach a broader and more mature sound. “Beggar’s Delight,†in particular, channels classic Velvet Underground with a potent “Walk on the Wild Side†style sax solo from former Morphine saxophonist Dana Cooley.
Rounding out this stellar release are tracks like “Paradise†and “You Can’t See the Starsâ€, both rich with gentle harmonies and evocative melodies, and the romping “I Dig This Town†which proves that Beyer can put down a beat.
My answer to Jabe’s question is that it doesn’t matter where he goes, with music this enjoyable we’ll all happily enjoy the ride.
Full album stream here.
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.