Following his successful Record Store day appearance in Toronto, I’ve finally composed some thoughts about Justin Nozuka’s sophomore CD You I Wind Land And Sea.
Despite its many familiar sounds, the record surprises by refusing to be pigeon-holed into a particular style or genre. Pop, Rock, R&B, and Blues elements are all equally at home. Overall it’s a pretty easy-going record with lots of deliberate quiet more than edgy rock. But don’t let you think it’s a pushover. There’s a great deal of thought put into these songs about relationships with women, introspection, and reflection. Justin executes them with a sincere and graceful passion that’s not reflected on many CD’s these days. Best of all, that old-soul-worldliness that grounded many songs on his debut CD Holly is omni-present.
As lovely as is the lead Canadian single “My Heart Is Yours”, it is outshone by the simplicity and preciousness of “Unwoken Dream (King with Everything)”. Peace and serenity are traded in for forthright emotions on “Carried You” and “Soulless Man”. Other fine tracks include “Heartless”, “Swan in the Water”, and the title track.
You I Wind Land And Sea has a humble sensibility that touches and draws in the listener. It should cement Justin Nozuka’s reputation as a talented singer/guitarist/songwriter with loads of fans to support him as he continues to draw accolades wherever he goes.
Here’s a clip of Justin’s appearance on The David Letterman Show on April 20.
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