After three years in the making, New Orleans, Louisiana singer/songwriter Owen Cook is out with his eponymous debut album – a set of richly detailed “cautionary country-rock tales” delivered in country-rock style. The album is filled with layered songs that combine elements of Americana and roots with autobiographical songwriting and imaginative arrangements. Standout tracks include: the reflective album opener “Japanese Magnolias”; the acoustic lament “Real News”; the upbeat drinking song “Ain’t Gonna Drink No More”; the bluesy path to happiness on “Joe’s Blues”; the driving alt-country rocker “Born This Morning”; and the excellent album closer “At My Window.” Owen Cook’s self-titled debut is a solid first outing, and I look forward to more from this up-and-comer. – Written by JFelton