Cris Jacobs, One of These Days Review

In One of These Days, Cris Jacobs, a versatile artist who seamlessly blends country, bluegrass, and Americana, delivers a poignant reflection of human resilience. This album, released in 2024 under his own label, marks Jacobs’s triumphant return after a five-year hiatus. It unveils a tapestry of stories, each a unique blend of emotional and existential musings that will captivate any music enthusiast.

The album opens with the track “Heavy Water,” a vibrant bluegrass song that sets a high bar with its virtuosic playing and solid singing. The song, reflective of Jacobs’ environmental concerns, metaphorically addresses the challenges we face, personal and global, akin to an impending flood. Like many others on the album, this track benefits from the robust backing of The Infamous Stringdusters, whose string work complements Jacobs’ soulful country vocals splendidly.

“Work Song (I Can Still Sing)” offers a blend of mid-tempo fingerpicking and harmonious vocals, featuring Lindsay Lou. This track draws its inspiration from the rich tradition of work songs and field hollers, turning hard labor’s monotonous reality into a soul-stirring musical experience. The simplicity of the arrangement allows Jacobs’ reflective lyricism to shine, illustrating his ability to find profound beauty in everyday struggles.

One of the most compelling narratives in the album is found in “Poor Davey,” a track that features Billy Strings. This song tells a chilling tale of generational trauma and crime, set against a backdrop of Jacobs’ native Baltimore. The energetic feel mirrors the story’s intensity, engaging the listener in a dramatic, almost cinematic experience.

The album’s emotional core is found in “Lifetime to Go,” a tender bluegrass ode to the enduring nature of love amidst life’s inevitable changes. Featuring harmonies by Lee Ann Womack, this track stands for its lyrical depth and heartfelt delivery. It serves as a reminder of the continuous effort required to sustain relationships over time, a theme that resonates deeply in today’s fast-paced world.

The album’s closing track, “Everybody’s Lost,” encapsulates the album’s existential theme. Here, Jacobs explores the universal feeling of uncertainty and longing that defines the human condition. The song’s gentle melody and harmonies invite the listener to find solace in shared experiences, promoting a sense of community and understanding.

Production-wise, Jerry Douglas’s influence as a producer is evident throughout the album. His expert touch enhances the authenticity and acoustic clarity of the live recordings, which capture the raw, palpable energy of the sessions. The choice to record live adds a layer of immediacy and intimacy to the album, allowing the listener to feel part of the creative process.

In One of These Days, Jacobs showcases his craftsmanship by presenting a reflective look at life’s challenges and beauties. His collaboration with a diverse range of talented musicians, including Lee Ann Womack, Billy Strings, and Lindsay Lou, enriches the album, making it not just a collection of songs, but a communal expression of artistry and humanity. One of These Days is a musical journey and a  exploration of the landscapes of human emotions, making it a significant and timely contribution to the genres of country, bluegrass, and Americana.