Former member of Austin cult band True Believers,
Jon Dee Graham's second album of gentle Americana features guest appearances by
Patty Griffin on the minimalist "Look Up" and
Bruce Hughes (ex-
Poi Dog Pondering,
Ugly Americans) on the darker, rockist "Black Box."
Graham brings his unique, throaty voice to Summerland, which has everything from the gentlest melody ("Butterfly Wing") to intricate, instrumental fretwork ("Number 3") and even a spike of Latino music ("At the Dance"), all set to a beat provided by his crack band of Austin musicians. ~ Denise Sullivan