Mishka

Much has been made of what has been called Matthew McConaughey's discovery of reggae folkster Mishka but the emphasis on McConaughey is misplaced, for it is the singer-songwriter that deserves the attention. Above the Bones erupts majestically with "Higher Heights," as Mishka's breathy vocals plead for peace and understanding overtop a crucial steppers rhythm and closes on a gentle note with the aptly named "Guy With a Guitar." Less poppy than last outing One Tree, Above the Bones balances roots-y reggae with songwriter-ish tendencies, resulting in a mature collection of songs from an artist that has found his niche. The Dylan-esque title track features the raspy voiced troubadour on a song Blue Rodeo will be jealous they didn't write and "My Love Goes With You," with its stripped bare acoustic feel, is a gorgeous and soulful love letter inna rub-a-dub stylee. Even the lilting "Peace and Love," whose bass line comes dangerously close to spring break, beach bum, Jimmy Buffet fare, manages to shine in Mishka's able hands.