24 at Elevation inside The Intersection in Grand Rapids 19 at Bell’s Eccentric Cafe in Kalamazoo Nov. Perfect For: Riding the highs and low of backyard brews with old friends. Amid tracks that rocks between personal rambles and country-propelled boot-movers, it’s impressive that “Mississippi” can raise the bar even higher. “Mississippi” grabs you by the neck and swings you around the barnyard with crashing drums, high-wire vocal energy and a string of stellar solos - all without letting you go until the bubble pops with a country crescendo. The track is anchored not only by beautiful instrumental composition throughout, but really touching lyrics that paint a miraculous sepia-toned soundscape. Between colorful imagery, rocking chord progressions and a belt-it-or-bust chorus, it embodies the best parts of its Americana roots. Sax solos from out of nowhere on “TRACK,” graceful strings guiding “Two Dreams,” and the raw break-back energy throughout “Mississippi” creates powerful highs on a track list that doesn’t bother with digging out lows.ĭigging Deeper: The album’s opening track, “Arizona,” is an addicting introduction to the tone that the rest of this collection carries. However, while “Why Not?” should be praised for its charming consistency, it comes with surprises that create lingering moments. It’s wholesome, genuine and hits the right notes without gimmicks. The vocal work from John Nowak, Isaac Berkowitz and George Falk meanders its way through the album like an old friend recollecting hometown memories. From the ’50s Wild West comic-style album cover to the loosely harmonic, soul-laden choruses and quirky solos, “Why Not?” puts its chips on the table and walks away with success. What Stands Out: Everything on “Why Not?” - the latest release from Grand Rapids-based jam band Desmond Jones - follows a seamless thematic thread. This early October roundup features the latest recordings from a couple of uber-popular regional bands as well as debut efforts from several emerging artists.Īnd check out previous Local Spins album reviews of Michigan releases online here.