American born, Australian based singer and guitarist JIMMY puts his own mark on 15 folk/alt.country gems.
From Townes’s Rex’s Blues, through to the self penned, My Love, the rich velvet vocal and luscious guitars leave no doubt in one’s mind that Jimmy “believes, lives, loves and understands”, the craft and inspiration behind these songs from Dylan, Townes Van Zandt, Guy Clarke and John Prine, chosen and beautifully interpreted here on Illyrian Sun.
An outstanding version of David Wilcox’s classic, Spin is augmented by the appearance of Canadian slide virtuoso Harry Manx.
An ensemble of musician friends from all over the planet gather to lend a hand and help create the atmosphere and backdrop on other tracks like Angel from Montgomery and LA Freeway.
The often ignored and untypical Neil Young love ballad, Birds is treated (here) with tenderness, conviction and delicacy.
JIMMY (CRALL) tours Europe each year and has previously released 3 albums.
Florida-raised singer and guitarist Jimmy’s story is an interesting one. He has traveled extensively, been a one-man band with his own drums on his back in many countries. But he resists the urge to dramatize his musical experience. For him it’s about a story, and that shines through in the songs he sings. His lightly scratchy voice tells stories, about himself and his music, in the time-honored fashion of a traveling bard.
Featuring covers of songs by Bob Dylan, John Prine, Neil Young and others, Jimmy’s arrangements favor direct versions of classic works, driven by his characteristic voice and framed with loving guitar work. His backing band is impeccable, bringing tasteful drum and bass to the mix. For lovers of classic folk, rock and blues tunes, Jimmy’s story-telling voice shouldn’t be missed.
Gabe McCaslin / folkworld