As part of a reported trilogy (the first, On Blue Fog came out in 2007), one could interpret this latest title literally, since the album marks a true rebirth of Ethier's musical direction. While the writing still sparks little flashes of Al Tuck, Dylan, Nick Cave and noir-ish folk, Born of Blue Fog takes a giant leap away from the sparser lower-fi values of his first solo offerings, toward a smooth jazz groove ("Easiest Game"), mid-tempo blues ("Heaven Above You") and the relaxed sophistication of bands like Smog. Paul Aucoin (Hylozoists) and Christopher Sands should get recognition for their multi-instrumental talents and subtle string arrangements.
Dave Hayden
