Subsequent to the release of 'Desert Song', the incredibly talented Mr. Livingstone brings us 'One Eye Open, One Eye Closed.' This sensationally evocative album, co-produced and mixed by Eric Liljestrand (Lucinda Williams) and featuring a hugely talented band which includes the likes of Doug Pettibone (Lucinda Williams), Doggen (Spiritualized), Evan Jenkins (Neil Cowley Trio) and Frank Zappa's old brass section, was recorded in studios, bedrooms, basements and even a church. These collections of songs have been on their own journey and help depict the wonderfully rich story of Jimmy Livingstone's travels and tales of life and love.
Following a close call with death in a high speed car crash, Livingstone took the decision to hone his voice as a songwriter and commit to the passion for music that he has always had, an epiphany we will all most certainly benefit from. Jetting off to Los Angeles in order to "flirt with the dream machine" and despite becoming homeless, Jimmy never compromised his passion for music and finished recording his incredible musical memoir in the Mojave Desert.
Opening with the refreshingly down-to-earth Getting By, you are instantaneously drawn in by the warmth and soul in Jimmy's distinctive voice and your mind is taken to the American country. This Americana vibe is strung out throughout the entire album and you are lifted in a whirlwind of emotions.
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Jimmy's master skill in songwriting and beautifully narrative ability leaves you feeling empathetic and full of warm-hearted sentiment. This solemn and soulful mood is brilliantly lifted with occasional bursts of upbeat guitar riffs and delightfully humorous lyrics. Tracks such as 'The World beneath my Feet' and 'Useless Man' will without doubt have you tapping your toes and singing along in a heartbeat. It's impossible not to listen to this album all the way through, and the craftsmanship and style is reminiscent of artists such the great Jimmy Webb, Roy Orbison and Neil Diamond.
The raw, honest quality to the album is truly an eye (or rather, ear) opener and really is a remarkable piece of work. It would be a sin to not have this in your collection.
Jimmy Livingstone online
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