There's a simple beauty to the sound of Gregory Alan Isakov's This Empty Northern Hemisphere, stating more than just eloquent poetry but creating a masterpiece with warm tones and sweet harmonies. A heartfelt nostalgia in every verse evokes memories of the south, even if you grew up in the east.
As “Dandelion Wine” begins the album I am immediately transported back to the days of summer loves and willow trees, and joyfully remain there until the end.
Technically Isakov’s sophomore album is more complex than The Sea, That Gambler, his 2006 debut album, while still allowing the for universality of straightforward and relatable lyrics, layering harmonies of piano, strings, horns and guitar. Much like Leonard Cohen, whose “One of us cannot be wrong” rounds out the album, individually every one of Isakov’s songs can be a stand-alone poem, all music aside.
“That Moon Song” the third track, haunts listeners with a powerfully subtle harmony from accomplished musician Brandie Carlisle, complementing Gregory’s honey laden vocals and nimbly crafted words like a fine wine. Isakov even wistfully cites his own genre in the reflective tune Evelyn; “theres an old folk song on the radio / sounding thin and dark and haunted” as it transitions into Virginia May, Big Black Car, and the title track, which are indeed just that.
From top to bottom, every chord, every note, and every word speak to you, no matter what your background may be. Heartbreak, love, reflection and home are themes that everyone can associate with collectively, and Isakov assures that you are not alone.
In an era where every man and his dog plays guitar, and every singer-songwriter wants to be Ryan Adams, it's refreshing to be knocked out of my seat by a musician who is as compelling and talented as Isakov. Listening to Northern Hemisphere is like listening to your grandmother’s phonograph, and smiling.
Album is available at www.gregoryalanisakov.com/
-Jus Alexandra Percy
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