James Kasper

Kasper With a few awards on his mantel and the enthusiastic support of Canadian fans, James Kasper is in prime position to continue his thriving singer-songwriter career. He follows his 2007 collection The Old Fashioned Way with a second CD small town gods & devils.
Intended to “show a darker, edgier Kasper” the new CD is billed as “roots” and “folk-noir.”
In the opinion of some music fans, the United States and North America need serious, well-constructed music in this genre. Kasper seems to provide some of that. “Breezy” has a couple of strengths – harmonica and an almost “southern” mystery. The tune’s pace builds toward the end, which may or may not be a good idea. The individual listener will decide.
“This Town” has a curious beginning that gets the listener’s attention. The lyrics get stronger as the song builds to conclusion. “Liam’s Lullaby” draws on the age-old flavor of Irish/Welsh history for its fire-warmed, living-room atmosphere and chiming music. It’s an adorable little tune.
“One Dead and Counting” goes a bit beyond its ominous title with a couple studio tricks (you’ll get them!) and then brings to mind a song by the late Warren Zevon. The “breathy” spoken vocal is a bit different than Zevon, however, with its European folk flavor.
This might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but Kasper is a pro.