Lance Cowan • The Air That You Breathe
(Patio Records / Lantzapalooza Muzik)
Lance Cowan is on a roll. A music publicist for decades, he only recently reinvented himself as a folk/Americana recording artist. But he has now issued three excellent albums in as many years, and the latest of these is arguably his best. Called The Air That You Breathe, it cements his reputation as an affecting singer and a writer of memorable, understated songs that exude warmth and humanity.
Like Cowan’s earlier albums, the 11-track new one features backing from a coterie of talented studio musicians. Also on hand are a couple of country music luminaries: Sam Bush, who plays mandolin on four tracks, and Jimmie Dale Gilmore, who adds backing vocals on one.
“Where’d They Go,” one of three numbers Cowan composed with Nashville songwriter Terry Clayton, is the album’s first single and a standout. It subtly responds to President Trump’s immigration policies by describing the sudden disappearance of the Garcias, a family who live next door to the song’s narrator. Another memorable topical number is “Closer to Truth,” which Cowan wrote with the late David Mallett. That song addresses gun violence and, like “Where’d They Go,” it garners its strength partly by eschewing big-picture statements and instead focusing on how individuals are affected. Also excellent is “When He Was Here,” a number about a marital breakup that Cowan wrote with Janis Ian.
The lyrics to such songs are expertly crafted and evocative. However, you’ll likely enjoy this album even if you don’t pay attention to them because Cowan’s melodies are consistently strong and his vocals are a treat.
- Jeff Burger