You I Wind Land & Sea - Justin Nozuka

The sophomore album of Justin Nozuka is equally as enjoyable as his debut.  This one shows some growth, but seems more mellow, though definitely no less soulful.  The singer-songwriter opens this album with sparse instrumentation, a driving beat and his voice above it all.  The tempo picks up, as does the beat and the last third of the song really fills out.  It is a song representative of Nozuka's repetitive lyrics, but catchy melodies and emotional output.  While the majority of the songs are acousitc, some accompaniment, electric guitars, additional percussion, are added as each song grows and develops.  The lyrics are generally about the typical love, women.  Sung softly and with varying instrumentation most are interesting through to the end.  What I love most about Nozuka is his sparse use of blues elements and influence and when his voice shines at certain moments - ornamentations and dancing around certain notes. He shows a maturity in his songwriting beyond his 21 years, both musically and lyrically that few in this genre do.  On his debut, Holly, there were a few songs that instantly caught and held my attention ("Golden Train," "Be Back Soon," "After Tonight," and "Criminal").  This album runs together more in my head, but I like "Gray" for its soaring qualities, "Souless Man" for the use of the piano, and the title track for its sunny rhythm and mood.