I like to think of myself as a music lover who is never at a loss for words in describing how a particular piece of music moves me. However, I am completely at a loss for words in describing Completely Blue, the indescribable album from local singer-songwriter R Scot Payne. Now you have to understand that when I use the term indescribable, I mean it in the most flatterig of connotations. I liken this album to a fine wine. With so many different flavors hitting you all at once, you have a tough time distinguishing each and every one individually. The most prominent characteristics stand out, but there always seems to be more than what meets the ears. The question is then posed. Is it: a) a pop album, b) a rock album, or c) a folk album. The answer is, and it's always my favorite answer, d) all of the above. The finest quality of this album is, simply put, the talent and creativity that went into its creation. R Scot Payne seems to have a good grasp of what it takes to meld pop, rock and folk without being repetitive and predictable. Despite the difficulty of innovation in modern music (everything is alternative these days), this album keeps it fresh. The only lacking quality of this album is the production value. It seems to want a more distinct sound, but has trouble attaining it. However, like a fine wine, R Scot's production experience can only improve over time.

It's exciting to find an artist who isn't abundantly easy to pigeonhole. R Scot Payne, a medical researcher in the University of Louisville Department of Anesthesiology, doesn't do anything terribly brilliant or groundbreaking on this self-released album, but does give us something accessible that isn't also hackneyed. Much of the disc is somber folk music, filled with abstract images and subtle wordplay that vaguely recall Kurt Cobain. "Let Go" stands out thanks to a suspended guitar riff and bass line that, aided by Payne's estranged vocal, could have been an early R.E.M. track. "Whims" is smart, jangly pop that works within its well-defined parameters, and the title track draws again on Payne's staid vocal delivery to paint a serious picture atop a chilling melody. Sonically, Completely Blue could be better, but Payne certainly succeeds with the content.