Ron Sexsmith
Forever Endeavour
Album · Singer/Songwriter · 2013
Despite accolades from Sir Elton John, Sir Paul McCartney, and Elvis Costello, Ron Sexsmith seems doomed to release an album every year to only a cult audience who enjoys his heavenly voice, his introspective lyrics, and his melancholy melodies. Forever Endeavor reunites him with producer Mitchell Froom, who does his usual job of setting up Sexsmith in a variety of complementary arrangements. "Nowhere to Go" (as in "but down") and "Nowhere Is" (as in "I know where…") set the tone for this lonesome traveler. "Lost in Thought" completes its mission in a perfect two minutes and 20 seconds, much like an old Tim Hardin song would do. A mischievous skip in Sexsmith's step brings out the playful "Sneak Out the Back Door" to break the downcast tone. A full band drives the '60s-style pop of "Back of My Hand." Sexsmith's philosophy aims higher with "Deepens with Time" and "She Does My Heart Good," where it seems he's found his way to a brighter spot on the map. This deluxe edition adds four tracks that extend his streak of fine songs.