Sam Amidon’s 2008 album All Is Well took old folk songs and re-imagined them to gorgeous effect. With his new album I See The Sign, Amidon sticks to his guns, offering another collection of interpretations, along with an unexpected R. Kelly cover. In collaboration with contributers Nico Muhly, Ben Frost, Shahzad Ismaily, and Beth Orton, Amidon offers up an intriguing and sometimes odd collection of songs. “Here Comes That Blood” is frantic with it’s hyperactive percussion yet Amidon’s hypnotic vocals lend a measure of tranquility to the track. Elsewhere, on “You Better Mind,” Amidon’s voice blends wonderfully with Orton’s. Orton lends her backup vocals yet again on Amidon’s stunning take on R. Kelly’s “Relief.” Rather than being an exercise in self-satisfying irony, “Relief” actually works. It’s beautifully arranged and the song’s lyrics take on new meaning under Amidon’s care. When he sings “What a relief to know that/ The war is over,” it’s easy to forget you’re not listening to an original song. In fact, Amidon’s biggest strength is in how well he owns these interpretations. “I See The Sign” is yet another strong album. — Capt. Obvious

Listen:
Way Go Lily
Relief (R. Kelly Cover)

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