Justin Levison has been a favorite here for some time and he returns with "(Predetermined Fate)" and it ushers in a lot of `news` for him. Living in Vermont, it`s clear the influence has been a profound one for him, there`s a new, earthy feel to his tunes as the spirit of Vermont resonates clearly with his soul. "The first thing you notice when you start spinning Predetermined Fate is that Justin Levinson knows how to write a song. Not just the music, but the lyrics too. It`s actually one of the rare occasions where the lyrics actually grabbed me before the music and melodies. Levinson has a knack of penning lyrics that put a smile on your face with vivid imagery and clever turns of phrase, all wrapped up with a keen sense of humour. Heck he even makes "Hopelessness" sound like a good thing. Musically Levinson`s ditties are based in folk and roots music traditions. Banjo, harmonica, and twang blend to provide the whiskey-soaked country platform that the lyrics require...Run and get it." - Snob`s Music. "It`s a gentle, - perhaps too gentle for some tastes - unassuming album, but given the chance, it`s charms reveal themselves further with repeated listening." - Insonmnia Cafe. "Predetermined Fate is one of those albums you get to the end of and realize you liked it even if it initially only made a quiet impression on you. Levinson`s easy, unthreatening approach washes over listeners without fully engaging them. He`s a decent writer with a voice I`m non-committal on, but does seem to have a real ear for melody. Levinson writes in the crowded Americana realm, capturing a sound that`s part Blue Rodeo, part Wilco and part Connor Oberst...Justin Levinson has a talent for melody and graceful Americana arrangements. Predetermined Fate is full of songs with a lot of potential, but often the energy wanes a bit too much. His voice will strike some well and other not so much; individual listeners will have to decide for themselves. There is some real writing talent here, but the focus at times is quite varied and occasionally even distracted. There`s something that runs through Predetermined Fate however that speaks of future growth. I suspect the next album will be even better; but watch out, this one will grow on you." - Wildy`s World.
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