Having started out as a soul- and folk-influenced singer/songwriter, the Philadelphia-born
Amos Lee has developed over the years into an increasingly rootsy, country-leaning artist. On his fifth studio album, 2013's
Mountains of Sorrow, Rivers of Song,
Lee delves even further into a lyrical country style on what are some of his most heartfelt songs to date. The album follows up his acclaimed 2011 release,
Mission Bell, an album that was also steeped in country influences. In keeping with the rootsy approach,
Lee recorded this album in Nashville with producer
Jay Joyce, who has helmed similar productions for
Emmylou Harris and
the Wallflowers.
Lee has a knack for picking top-notch backing musicians and
Mountains of Sorrow, Rivers of Song is no exception, featuring superb instrumental work from
Lee's touring band, including, among others, pianist/organist
Jaron Olevsky, guitarist/banjo player Andy Keenan, bassist Zach Djanikian, and drummer
Freddy Berman. He is also joined by several big-name collaborators here, including guitarist
Jerry Douglas, who adds some earthy dobro to the title track, and guitarist
Tony Joe White, who brings his bluesy, atmospheric skills to several tracks. Similarly, contemporary bluegrass superstar
Alison Krauss lends her ethereal presence to the poignant "Chill in the Air," and journeyman folk chanteuse
Patty Griffin harmonizes with
Lee to goose bump-inducing effect on "Mountains of Sorrow." Ultimately, though, whether it’s the roiling, contemporary country twang of "Stranger," or the poignant heartbreak of "Dresser Drawer," it's
Lee's talents as an insightful songwriter and soulful vocalist that beg your attention on
Mountains of Sorrow, Rivers of Song. ~ Matt Collar