What I love about Steve Jones' new CD "It Is What It Is" is how the songs draw you in to contemplate while making your foot tap. They offer depths with a light touch, truth without rage, and the maturity of a gifted artist. I think of the way Richard Thompson, Tom Petty, and Neil Finn write. Thankfully, Jones' lyrics transcend the typical belly-button gazing of contemporary songwriting and can mirror the world of the "Everyman". The disappointment in "Rock n Roll You Leave Me Lonely" and the light but homesick "Cowshit Corner" hit upon truths easy to recognize. Melodious riffs, stellar guitar, and tasteful arrangements--Here's a songwriter from Maine to take seriously with a collection of songs worth every penny. I flat-out love this CD.

Having seen Steve Jones perform with the Boneheads, The Coming Grass and solo over the years, I thought I had a good grasp on both his songwriting and delivery. Several of Steve's songs had become favorites of mine over and I expected to find a few more on his new release as well. However, I was not prepared for this album when I first listened to it. From the first track, Time for You, the is a common vibe that weaves throughout every song on the album. With every song so well crafted, the concise and poignant lyrics of one song (Boomerang)giving way to the uplifting and powerful delivery of the next (She Loves to Sing) you are drawn in to a powerful and diverse look at a man's life without ever feeling that you have heard too much or aren't being told the whole story. For me, great songwriting is being able to truly give the listener a vivid picture without sounding contrite or self-absorbed. Jones does this time and time again with songs that take on a life of their own and sometimes border on the ethereal without ever losing their substance. Jones's powerful vocals, excellent musical performances and well placed harmonies are so tightly woven together and so well produced (props to Bob Colwell), that the result could only be a true classic and a landmark achievement for a diverse and under appreciated (Hallowell)Maine music scene. This album will not disappoint!!

IT IS WHAT IT IS is a masterpiece. The best album since Dylan type Harrison's last! Time For You ..the first song will hook you and the rest will soothe your soul. FIVE STARS!!!!!!!!!!!!!