Reviewed by Tony May

Roots-cum-pop-cum-rock, Jeff's voice and style are much like the great Greg Brown. Probably more helpful to most if I say the music's in the approximate patch of Bruce Cockburn and Richard Thompson. You'll gather that this album is short on cheap thrills but strong on meaty, searching lyrics and dreary, sparse, intense sounds. The title really needs a question mark, as the material explores areas of deep meaning and reality. "John's Dream" is typically reflective and insightful. "A Little Love" is a perfect example of the poet/singer's art, as is "Stolen Art", delicate songs of love's healing power and our need for sensitivity to the fragile human heart. "It's For Real" is a punchy song of exaltation, each of the 12 songs is thoughtful, confrontational and very, very real. Excellent American artist, more than competent band, one to track down I'd say.

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