John Ambrosini sings songs of hope on the sun-drenched optimism “Songs for You.” A celebration of the self, the crystal excellent jazz-rock fusion feels fantastic. Nods to old-school groups like Steely Dan adorn the album. Even his vocals touch upon the sophistication of Donald Fagen’s cadence. The silky-smooth atmospheres wash over the listener. Highly tactile, the production quality adds to its cleverness. Instrumentally rich, they employ various keyboards into the fray, giving it a slightly psychedelic sheen. Melodies waft about in the air, adding to the mellowed attitude.
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“The Horses” uses tactile percussion, including fantastic brushwork and tender piano chords. On the journey of “High and Dry,” John pays homage to Radiohead’s great work, giving the song just the right amount of spaciousness. Driving rhythms propel the “Midnight Rider” sound forward, incorporating gorgeous saxophone work. Steely Dan is covered with pure flair on the swinging style of the genre-hopping “Pretzel Logic.” A sense of mystery permeates the entirety of the graciousness of “Lover,” where the song moves in a beguiling, dancer-like fashion. “Doctor My Eyes” shows off the chops of the entire band, giving it a communal quality. Continuing the East Coast love is the glamorous “New York State of Mind.” Slowed tempos tie everything together in the soothing finale, “The Long and Winding Road,” which has a dreamy-eyed gaze.
“Songs for You” has a gentle, stately presence. John Ambrosini is an exceptional storyteller whose narrative ultimately draws the listener in.
