The Tulsa, Oklahoma-based singer-songwriter has a penchant for writing stunning soulful sad songs, but his latest release, LP5, the follow-up to 2017’s Big Bad Luv, introduces a wider range of emotions and sonic experimentation. While Moreland can still make us teary with his richly detailed songs, he seems to have taken a turn toward the lighter side of life this time around. Moreland worked with producer and percussionist Matt Pence and longtime collaborator and multi-instrumentalist John Calvin Abney. Together they incorporated the arresting vocal harmonies of Bonnie Whitmore alongside the usual acoustic guitar, weeping harmonicas, and subtle keyboards and drum loops, giving the music a haunted vibe. Notable tracks include: the spare album opener “Harder Dreams”; the tender tribute to a friend “In the Times Between”; the love song for his wife “When My Fever Breaks”; the heartfelt song “East October”; and the bluesy slow-burner “A Thought is Just a Passing Train.” It’s refreshing to see Moreland pushing his music’s sonic boundaries without straying too far from the core of what his music is about. LP5 is a great listen and an excellent addition to his discography. – Written by JFelton
SIMILAR | John Calvin Abney, Hayes Carll, Steve Earle, Jason Isbell, Bruce Springsteen