Langhorne Slim

Though he’s a 24-year-old Brooklynite, there’s a real authenticity to Langhorne Slim’s brand of honky tonk, blues-ridden Americana. Creating a lot of attention for himself with last year’s acclaimed EP, The Electric Love Letter, Langhorne has effortlessly surpassed the expectations with his debut full-length. Undeniably drenched in good old-time American’30s-era bluegrass and country, Langhorne also has a real contemporary schtick, which may have more to do with his urban environment and his affiliation with such a diverse indie label like Narnack, than his actual tunes. Nonetheless, when he mutters his sensitive lyrics like "you’re sweeter than corn on the cob,” people will listen without prejudice. With such a tight and steadfast backing band behind him, Langhorne finds space to let his patented and priceless hillbilly croon reverberate and work his harmonica to full potential. Balancing the album with a healthy selection of mournful ballads and harmonica-aided foot-stompers, it’s nice to see the young songwriter doesn’t settle into any type of comfort zone, leaving the listener free to enjoy his energetic and sundry strides. While alt-country fans are still waiting for a return to form by the overrated spoiled brat known as Ryan Adams, they should quit wasting their time and dote on this upstanding, porkpie hat-wearing star in the making.