Much has been made of how Daniel Martin Moore became a Sub Pop sensation by sending them a four track demo via snail mail and getting signed shortly thereafter. It’s hard to believe that Sub Pop, the label to bring us such greats as Iron & Wine, The Shins, and a little known band called Nirvana, seems to find time to sort through the countless submissions much less hear and seek out one of the “unknowns”. Regardless, this type of legendary tale has given Daniel Martin Moore some unrealistic expectations to fill which seemed to have disappointed a few.

For a guy who bases his music on simplicity, the fanfare surrounding Moore’s signing must seem like a whirlwind that he wishes could be tamed and toned down so he can carry on with playing his pure folk tunes. Accompanied mostly by just his acoustic guitar or a piano, Daniel Martin Moore’s music is carried by his voice and his laidback songwriting. His singing, closely resembling an American reincarnation of Nick Drake, goes down smooth with every listen. Effortlessly flowing from line to line, Moore’s tenor voice is best described as consistent – never imposing or too challenging for the listener. His songwriting tends to reflect more on his simple singing style than to make any sort of poetic statement. Although most likely written and recorded in an LA studio, it is easy to imagine Moore’s inspiration stemming from countless lazy summer days lounging on the back-porch of some podunk Kentucky town with only a guitar and a glass of lemonade to keep you company. As one might be put off by his conservative nature, I for one can relax and put on this album during the times I need to just take a break from it all.
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