Despite praise from the likes of Paul McCartney, Elvis Costello and Ray Davies, Ron Sexsmith remains humble, creating vivid pop sketches flush with humanity and humility. Consequently, Carousel One offers another example of Sexsmith’s savvy and skill, a combination of irrepressible melodies and a winsome vocal that is occasionally downcast but rarely despondent. At times, his casual croon brings Davies to mind—“Getaway Car” and “Nothing Feels the Same Anymore” being the best examples—and indeed, hints of McCartney’s unflappable cheer and Costello’s wit and irony are also evident as well. “How am I supposed to help you if I can’t get myself together?’ he asks pleadingly on the self-effacing “Can’t Get My Act Together.” The answer is simple: He doesn’t need to worry. One spin of Carousel One offers proof positive that Sexsmith’s songs are as good as it gets.