Will Stratton

Rosewood Alamanac BELLA UNION. CD/DL/LP

US singer-songwriter nods to classic inspirations but his own voice wins out.

Shortcuts are invidious, especially so with a cohesive album, but track six of Rosewood Almanac brings instant proof Will Stratton is special. I See You begins with 33 seconds of finger-picked acoustic guitar laying the table for an intimate vocal reflecting on an inescapable vision. After another minute, electric guitar, piano and a female vocalist fill the picture. Just over three minutes on, Philip Glass-like strings climax the song. While masterfully arranged, it’s taken to another level by an affecting, downbeat melody. This is Stratton’s fifth album. His debut came in 2007. He’s American, lives in New York State, was formerly a teacher. Overall, Rosewood Almanac – the rosewood from his favoured guitars – suggests a conjoined Jackson Browne and Nick Drake with touches of Paul Simon. Rosewood Almanac more than transcends its influences.