Some music defies the era in which it was made. The Tallest Man On Earth (aka Kristian Mattson) crafts songs that seem as if they were birthed in the pre-war American south. Not much belies the fact that he’s a contemporary musician from Sweden. The closest comparison you might find yourself making is to early career Dylan. Both musicians mine rural backcountry populated with hillbilly folkers and Mississippi country bluesmen. Mattson’s guitar picking and banjo playing is about as good as they come and his lyrics speak to the depth of his life experience. There’s plenty to get into, from the tender and unsettling “The Gardener,” to the world weariness of “I Won’t Be Found.” Put this album on and prepare to be transported.
- music label: Gravitation 2008 / 2011