Oh My God

About

On his fifth solo album, Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter Kevin Morby taps into his spiritual side over a bluesy gospel sound—an attitude he has said is motivated by secular reasons rather than religious belief. He reconnects with his past as he looks forward, tracing a timeline of events that span from his Methodist upbringing in Kansas City to his experiences as a touring musician. Contrary to the grim lyrical imagery of 2014’s <i>Still Life</i> and the oblique narratives of 2016’s <i>Singing Saw</i>—both seasoned with biblical references—Morby’s pious declarations are playful and cheerful. He recounts his futile attempts to live a life of faith during his childhood on “Nothing Sacred / All Things Wild” and “Seven Devils,” incorporating simple piano chords, placid conga hits, and muted organ fills to create a sense of uplift. “Oh Lord come carry me home,” he pleads on “OMG Rock n Roll,” playing a swampy blues jam that abruptly transitions into a luminous seven-member choir. He prays for his life during a bumpy flight on the soulful “O Behold,” recognizing how dire circumstances can turn any non-believer a little bit more holy.

via Apple Music