This is a rather sombre album. This has something to do with the genre and topic of the songs. It also has something to do with the life of Jackson C. Frank. This is the only record Frank released in his life. It was recorded by Paul Simon and is generally well regarded by many in the singer-songwriter circle. It is filled with gorgeous songs that have the capacity to lift you up and set you down in equal measure. It is appropriate as a memorial to his life. Filled with childhood trauma then later in life health and mental health problems. He eventually died poor at the relatively young age of 56. A tragedy surely, but a great gift and blessing to leave behind such a magnificent piece of art. But, join me in celebrating the depths of his music and the mixed emotions therein, Let his work not go unnoticed.

The music itself is a masterclass on singer-songwriter folk and blues. The composition is soulful singing of beautiful lyrics accompanied by masterful acoustic guitar. "Blues Run The Game" reflects Frank's life of moving around. It sings of how the blues can follow you around. How they are the same wherever they choose to run their games. "Here Come The Blues" has that blues guitar and lonesome singing. It feels just as the title claims; the coming of the blues with the coming of the rain. "Milk And Honey" is an intricate song. It showcases the skill of Frank as a guitar player, but also as a writer. It has this poetic turning of seasons theme with delicate fingerpicked guitar. Then there is the song "My Name is Carnival" which means something, but I cannot pin it down personally. There is a sort of enchantment to it that I cannot grasp. Perhaps it is that sound of the guitar feeling like someithing out of a medieval carnival scene. Maybe it is the way his voice cuts against those lyrics. "I Want To Be Alone" is a song that sings of wanting to be alone with your feelings. To me it is a song about a very real place we all tread occasionally. Wanting to feel and contemplate our sorrows. Just remember not to stay there too long. All these songs tread familiar topics of Folk and Blues. However, I don't think I could overstate how well Jackson C. Frank does that.

I think there is a good reason for this album to have stuck around in a world where so much music fades into the night. Every track is genre perfect. Simple, but heartfelt. Frank sang as a pure form of expression and communication. His place as a writer and songwriter feels earned. Pure poetry is adequate to describe many of his lyrics. This album makes his life story all the more tragic and the songs likewise more potent. I can't say these songs are upbeat or exciting that is certain. I can say that they are earnest and beautiful. Maybe not perfect for some times, but a lifeline at others. If you are in the mood I encourage you to listen to the whole album at once. Learn with me how these songs can stick around in your mind.