Canadian Newcomer Brings Well-Crafted Music to a Tired Pop Scene

Luke Jackson has invented a stalwart style all his own. Canada’s next biggest and brightest star has generated an album that feeds off of Beatles-esque poppiness, unpredictable and catchy key changes, and a big, sentimental sound that drives an exceptional, distinctive style. Inimitable guitar riffs bring Gin Blossoms to mind - but only in style. Is Luke Jackson the next big thing? Don’t expect any pretensions; you’ll have to take a listen to his debut album, …And Then Some, and decide for yourself.

Sometimes employing lonely classical string-enriched acoustic guitars, sometimes bluesy pianos a la Hold Steady, Luke Jackson is never boring, even at his dullest. …And Then Some’s only weakness is its stubborn refusal to quit acting pop-rock, which turns out to be a very small limitation in the end. Jackson’s voice calls to mind the vocal stylings of Joe Strummer at moments, sometimes sounding strangely foreign but always audibly emotional and ambitious. The participation of Malmö’s Opera Orchestra facilitates a beauty that complements Wilson’s near-perfect audio power.

…And Then Some opens up with a flair you might find in a Wonders song (yes, the same Wonders from the movie That Thing You Do). “Come Tomorrow” employs key changes that suggests Smoking Popes leanings - just poppy enough to warrant a radio single. “This Life,” erupts with a sentimental chorus that sings of lost love, pulling heartstrings and boasting sing-along hooks. Jackson dons a hilarious full British accent for “Goodbye London,” utilizing an arrangement of guitar tones to complete the song’s full, catchy sound while “1970’s Kids TV Show Theme” sounds like it could be borrowed from a Paul Simon instrumental album.

…And Then Some flirts with country, thrives on pop-rock, brims with emotion, moves with a purpose, and evokes a genteel respect from the pickiest critics. Jackson’s assortment of influences blends itself into an entirely unrecognizable object, fully intact and seamless. …And Then Some is a peaceful collision of indefinable worlds, adventurous and new, relying on the tradition of well-crafted, catchy music as its only recognizable foundation. Listen to …And Then Some, and you’ll come out scratching your head with a warm glow in your heart.

Mark Sherbin