Worth the gossip

Ray LaMontagne’s music revitalizes the sound of the singer-songwriter movement of the early ’70s, a time when earthy, earnest and literate folk music ruled the day. LaMontagne’s music is most often compared to that of Van Morrison’s, with a voice that is both poignant and uplifting.

Partnered once again with producer and multi-instrumentalist Ethan Johns, LaMontagne’s third effort Gossip in the Grain showcases LaMontagne as a well-versed singer and musician, displaying his ability to write great songs in several different styles, not just folk.

Gossip in the Grain finds LaMontagne bringing new life to the sounds of music’s legends. On the opening track “You Are the Best Thing,” he channels Otis Redding and the sounds of Memphis’ famous Stax Records, with a soulful voice, a host of horns and strings and a classic chorus to boot.

“Winter Birds” is the most poetic track here as Ray wistfully sings the lyrics in a way reminiscent of Joni Mitchell. “Henry Nearly Killed Me (It’s A Shame)” is the sort of rambling railroad blues that John Lee Hooker once played.

Gossip in the Grain revitalizes these spirits of old with incredible success through LaMontagne’s uncanny vocal ability to adapt to the given style and some amazing production done by Johns. Johns uses a multitude of instruments to create arrangements perfectly.

The production allows the music to sound incredibly lush and wonderfully down-to-earth at the same time. The production on “Sarah” is wonderfully reminiscent of the sensitive and thoughtful spirit of Van Morrison’s finest work.

A song that must be noted is “Meg White,” LaMontagne’s confession of his adoration for The White Stripes’ drummer. The song features a spaghetti-western theme, simple White-esque drumming and even psychedelic undertones, making for a strange yet charming listen.

LaMontagne, with his third consistently good effort, has propelled himself to the top of the singer-songwriter world over the likes of Damien Rice and Amos Lee.

Although LaMontagne brings nothing new to the table, his ability to create music equal parts thoughtful and earnest is something to be admired.