Ben Bostick - Ben Bostick (2017)

The Beaufort, South Carolina native, who makes California his home these days (busking on the Santa Monica Pier, as it turns out), is more Townes Van Zandt than Hootie & The Blowfish. Bostick understands that great lyrics, paired with dynamite musicians, is a recipe for seriously solid music.

Bostick wisely featured producer John Would (Fiona Apple, Warren Zevon) behind the board to co-produce Ben Bostick – and to great effect. Each instrument – acoustic guitar to harmonica to piano to fiddle, and more – pops out of the speakers, sweetening the songs coming from Bostick’s buttery baritone that, well, is utterly reminiscent of ol’ Waylon.

The opening track on this 10-song disc, “Independence Day Eve,” gets things off to a simmering start, while getting into bouncy, countrified Jerry Reed territory on "Paid My Dues" which at times reminds me of Johnny Cash's "I've Been Everywhere."

“Supposed To" and the amusing number "The Juggler" are standout tracks for their explicit honesty and poetry. And on "Paper Football," there is a delicate beauty amidst the sadness and loss.

We are very excited to learn of this new and authentic roots/Americana artist, who isn't afraid to let his hair down and have some serious fun. He isn't just some good ol' boy. Ben Bostick is the real McCoy.