Musical Thesis: Jim James “Tribute To 2”

At the center of every album is a musical thesis. This thesis can be the driving force behind the album, a theme that interweaves songs together, or a feeling you are left with after the last song plays. With some albums, the thesis is easy to find. On others, it is hidden and requires you to be more than a passive listener. These reviews are not about rating an album. Instead, it is about uncovering a musical thesis.  

I keep lookin' for a place to fit in
Where I can speak my mind
And I've been tryin' hard to find the people
That I won't leave behind

It was never a secret. I love a great quality cover song. I am also a devoted fan of My Morning Jacket and their frontman, Jim James. For years, I have followed Jim’s solo work with the same devotion and excitement I get with the announcement of a new project involving the entire band. This has been especially true of his Tribute albums.  

In this collection of eleven songs, you find beautiful interpretations and reimagining of songs you know well. There are also a few cover songs you may discover for the first time. Taken as a whole album, I sense an undercurrent of country flair, or at least a more grounded sound than you might find on a My Morning Jacket album.  

Every song here is stripped bare. Jim’s voice is the overriding instrument in most songs. Any instrumentation that exists serves as a foundation or launching point for the lyrics. I believe this is a choice made to force you to slow down and pay close attention to the words. The choice means little is standing in the way of an interpretation that can be all your own. As someone unfamiliar with most of the songs on this album, I deeply appreciate and respect this choice.  

This stylistic choice made me curious to learn more. This is more than a simple cover album, paying homage to artists and songs I assume Jim holds in high regard. Instead, I think this album exists as an invitation to discover and explore. Dive deeply into the lyrics, spend quality time with the original songs, and explore catalogs with all your might. Since my first few trips through this album, I have taken on this journey. Along the way, I have discovered new songs, albums, and bands to love. As someone constantly searching for new music, I deeply appreciate the opportunity and invitation.

Be good to each other,  

Nathan