A heartfelt showcase in folk songwriting, Texican Valet is the memorable new album from James Cook. Originally from the Texas-Oklahoma border, Cook embraces a sound that beautifully incorporates geographical and cultural elements — beckoning a southern charm in the use of acoustics and string-laden emotion, while also infusing the Tejano influences that he experienced since childhood. Amidst this dynamic folk prowess is a personal thematic focus, capturing male loneliness and how temporary isolation can provide an opportunity for personal renewal.
Lead single “Is That All You’ve Got” showcases Cook’s knack for string-forward folk emotion and stirring narratives, here detailing a protagonist by the name of Josie whose personal tumult is depicted by swarming vultures “surrounding her,” — “trying to break the girl.” Ensuing mountain-top depictions and “is that all you’ve got?” questioning is an ardent display of Josie’s perseverance, and Cook’s tendency for character-building in general.
“How to Live Lonely” is another success with personal charm, emphasizing a more first-person account of loneliness. “Either way I’m past due for a smile,” Cook’s expressive vocals let out amidst steady acoustics and heartfelt strings. “I learned how to live lonely,” a prouder punctuation shows, exemplifying how being comfortable with oneself is pivotal toward betterment with friendships and relationships in general. Also impressing, the album’s title track represents Cook’s first foray into Spanish-language songwriting. A beautiful audible showcase of Tejano influence on Cook’s sound, the vocals move with intrigue as Spanish-style guitars meld with emotive strings and an eventual clapping catharsis. Texican Velvet is a fantastic, immersive folk success from James Cook.
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We discovered this release via MusoSoup.
