Jeb Loy Nichols returns to Timmion Records with a set of soul-rooted songs that keeps its feet in Southern traditions while carrying his plainspoken, instantly recognisable voice. “First Night Away From Home” opens with an easy loping rhythm, and the album stays close to that unhurried pace, moving through mid-tempo love songs and relaxed grooves rather than chasing big finishes. Cold Diamond & Mink provide the backing, with organ swells, crisp drums and bass lines that leave plenty of room around Nichols’ vocals. It sounds warm without becoming soft-edged.
There’s a good spread of country soul and Americana here. “Here With You” is a breezy romantic number, “Good Morning Monday” brings a rootsier shuffle, and “Step In” settles into a mellow song about finding your way back to someone. “Coming Home Love” reaches a little deeper, while Emilia Sisco’s gospel-leaning harmonies add lift to several tracks. Nichols has been making records since 1997, and this feels like the work of a songwriter who knows how little he needs to say. Fans of understated soul, singer-songwriters and Timmion’s house-band sound should find plenty to like, especially on the paid FLAC, ALAC, WAV or AIFF editions.
