The Salish Sea

John Reischman and the Jaybirds somehow make old-time music sound fresh and new again and again. On this latest album, the band blends old-time, bluegrass, folk, and gospel sounds in a comforting tapestry. They evoke a melancholic nostalgia in a song like “The Old Churchyard” while never becoming overly sentimental. The title track is an excellent example of crafting music that sounds ancient and completely modern at the same time.

Of course, on any record with Reischman and company, we expect stellar instrumentation, and there is plenty to be found here as the band plays with a passionate precision that makes it all sound easy. Two of the originals by Trisha Gagnon, “You’re My Honey” and “Walk With Me,” are likely the sweetest songs you’ve heard in a long time, overflowing with all-natural, honest-to-goodness joy. A delightful record from start to finish.