Jason McNiff Makes It Clear: He Deserves To Be Discovered

Jason McNiff’s supple blend of compelling conviction and assured Americana makes him a well kept secret on both sides of the Big Pond, but having said that, one can’t help but be amazed he hasn’t become better known by now. Thankfully, there’s still ample possibility for correcting that oversight. Indeed, his latest offering, Rain Dries Your Eyes, is the ideal offering when it comes to amping up that appreciation. 

McNiff’s efforts put him somewhere between a forlorn folkie and a singer/songwriter of significant prowess, and indeed, there’s not a single song that doesn’t attest to those more than ample abilities. In fact, new arrivals could find no better place to start. A double disc anthology, Rain Dries Your Eyes boasts the best of his earlier material along with a handful of rarities and outtakes sure to please the completist. In truth, this was no enviable task, given the fact that he hasn’t released a duff effort yet. Even with 33 tracks (!) spread over the two CDs, there are any number of equally fine contenders that could have been included. Maybe it’s also time to rerelease those early albums on a top flight American label capable of bringing him the attention he deserves over here. 

By way of reference, McNiff conveys a sound that recalls Blood on the Tracks-era Bob Dylan, but in truth, quick comparisons don’t do him justice. It’s clear at the outset, courtesy of songs such as “Off the Rails,” Woody’s Annie Hall” and “Southbound Train” that this set of songs is capable of convincing even the most skeptical listener that an exceptional talent is waiting in the wings. Suffice it to say that Rain Dries Your Eyes is an eye opener as well.