It's been awhile since we've heard from Swedish folksinger Jose Gonzalez. Vestiges & Claws is his third full length, his first in seven years. The compositions are simple, mainly Gonzalez's voice and guitar with some occasional percussion, backing vocals and flute. He recorded the album at his home studio and added final touches at Svenska Grammofonstudion in Gothenburg. His fluid finger picking style moves seamlessly through quiet moments, silent as a whisper, to large, near orchestral levels. There's a nod to the singer / songwriters of the 60s and the 70s, but Gonzalez's music exists in its own world. This is introspective material that finds him turning his focus to themes like religion vs. science, dealing with heartbreak and all its complexities, and our brief lifetimes on earth. This is immediate and intimate music. Something to share with a lover or enjoy all by yourself.

• limited edition clear vinyl version
• digital download included
• music label: Imperial Recordings 2015

reviewed by Hank Ohs 03/2015