After four independent label releases, Mason Jennings became one of the first signings to the major subsidiary label of Modest Mouse's Isaac Brock. His naturally articulated, mid-range vocals bring to me the equally inviting Donovan, especially on "Some Say I'm Not," with its exotic rhythmic bed. The songs are full of a sort of optimistic searching, both romantic and spiritual. With the songs anchored by a first person vantage point, Jennings' friendly timbre makes for an utterly believable narrator. The arrangements are spare, but smartly constructed. The gentle piano flourishes and evocatively descending chords of "Moon Sailing on the Water" help to cast longing and dislocation in the hopeful glow of the restorative powers of the natural world. These ten songs by Jennings are like chamber music, each one given its own quietly powerful setting. --David Greenberger