John Jennings – I Belong To You

John Jennings is best known as Mary Chapin Carpenter’s co-writer, guitarist and producer, not to mention numerous musician credits with Janis Ian, John Gorka, Robin & Linda Williams, Beausoleil, Tony Rice and others. I Belong To You is his sophomore solo effort, and with its spare instrumentation, less-is-more approach, and thoughtful, evocative wordscapes, it serves as a showcase for Jennings’ witty, thoughtful lyrics.

With a smokey, world-weary voice, Jennings bemoans intolerance on “Paradise Misplaced” (“You’ve got yours and I’ve got mine/Keep to your side of the line”); expresses feelings of helpless frustration on “Untitled” (“I love you, god damn you, goodbye”); and laments his own inability to resist a love interest on “I Need All The Help I Can Get” (“I haven’t called the psychic hotline yet/but I need all the help I can get”), which rocks pretty hard after seven cuts of midtempo acoustic-based introspection.

From an instrumental standpoint, I Belong To You is always tasteful, free of florid excesses. Drummer Dave Mattacks adds a strong push when needed with impeccable timing and strength. Jennings and his sidemen consistently blend acoustic and electric instruments with great skill. And, as expected, Carpenter makes a guest appearance, harmonizing on the title cut.

I Belong To You might get under your skin after a few listens, but it may not do much to elevate Jennings’ status as a musical sidekick and all-around talent. Most likely it will appeal to Carpenter’s fans and to those who appreciate understated, poetic, acoustic-based music.