Burlington, Vermont's cold, snowy weather makes the perfect atmosphere for huddling inside a coffee shop and listening to laid-back, live music. The singer-songwriter scene here is strong, and one of the strongest members of that community is Lyle King. He's won Burlington's premier singer-songwriter competition, and it's easy to see why once you hear his music.

"Catchy and melodic folk pop" is how his sound is usually described, and that hits the nail on the head. King is an excellent guitarist, and when he combines that with his soft yet powerful voice, he can create some really cool tunes. Some are soft; some are faster and more upbeat. All have at least some measure of catchiness that is sure to stick in your mind.

His debut album is 2001's Left Standing. Though he usually performs by himself with only a guitar and the occasional harmonica, this album features several guest musicians. These songs already sound good with just a guitar, but they are given an added punch from the addition of drums. Some tracks even have piano or string arrangements, giving them a grander feel.

Highlights of the album include the lively stomp "Where I Belong," which breaks the album's overall softness with faster beats, especially with the piano and the energetic chorus: "I just wanna stay here / I just wanna stay." "Turn Around" is a faster-paced tune with some cool metaphors delivered with a hint of bitterness: "My heart's in your teeth / But you keep on biting down gently." Other songs such as "Always," "Cold Feet," and "Don't Wanna Fall" keep it light while bringing up the speed in all the right spots.

The upbeat mood doesn't last all the way, though. Most of the tracks here find varying ways of dealing with love or loss of love. The nearly seven-minute "I Miss You" is filled with heartbreak: "I've no recollection of our last kiss / I guess that makes it easier to move on." This glass case of emotion is a sad but superb way for King to demonstrate his versatility. One of the album's strongest numbers is "Angel." This beautiful love song has the perfect melodies to back up the touching lyrics: "My angel comes to me at night / She likes to make sure I'm all right." "Back Home" ends the album on a quiet but still strong note before an alternate version of "Angel" closes things up for good.

King's next album should be out sometime in 2008, but until then, head to iTunes and check out his first. Left Standing is an excellent work of fun and laid back acoustic tunes that nearly anyone can enjoy.


Also from Lyle King: 
5 A.M.


Recommended: Yes