Brushfire

Canadian native Alfie Jurvanen – aka Bahamas – doesn’t disappoint on Bar Chords, the follow-up to 2009’s Pink Strat. Like the songs on Bahamas’ debut, the record is powered by his strong vocal delivery and thoughtful lyrics. Proving that he’s landed on a fitting album, the indie folk rocker sounds a lot like his Brushfire brethren – at times echoing Jack Johnson and Mason Jennings. “Lost in the Light” kicks off the album with pensive, emotive blues, while the following track, “Caught Me Thinking,” hints at pop-infused surf rock. “Okay Alright I’m Alive” is a bouncy and uplifting layered track with a fun guitar solo, “Overjoyed” is a moving ballad and “Any Other Way” is a stripped down joyous occasion. And the time he spent playing guitar/piano with Feist and Jason Collett also shines through on these 12 tracks, which clock in at just under 40 minutes. This singer/songwriter has mastered music for any mood, with just the right amount of soulful blues and mellow happiness.