Review: Jesse Bardwell and the Free Union
Artist: Jesse Bardwell and the Free Union
Album: Self-titled EP (BUY NOW ON VINYL OR DIGITAL)
Released: May 3, 2017
Genre: Folk/Country
Singer-songwriter Jesse Bardwell — who, since 2005, has been known for his work as part of northwestern New Jersey juggernaut Quimby Mountain Band — has gone out on his own to flex his country muscles.
The resulting effort – the four-track “Jesse Bardwell and the Free Union” EP – is a sonically mature collection; one which hearkens back to country’s golden age with a dash of folk.
With twangy guitars and heartfelt storytelling, opening track “Golden State” describes Bardwell’s pining for California live. Speaking of “Pining,” the third track on this EP is a tender waltz that beautifully captures the stark realities of loneliness.
For those looking for a stomp-along good time, EP closer “Trying to Get Lost” is a fun tune with heavy bluegrass influence and powerful lyrical imagery that takes the listener along on Bardwell’s adventure.
Track listing:
Golden State
True Love, Too Late
Pining
Trying to Get Lost