Kevin Lee Florence

Given Kevin Lee Florence

Flecked with folk influences, finger-picked guitar lines and distinctive harmonies provided by his sister Kelly, Kevin Lee Florence's Given falls somewhere between Sam Beam's hushed, vivid folk and Simon's own conversational, quirky lyrical genius. The slow-burning hope of 'Could Today be the Day' falls into a groove, and contrasts with harmony fanfare and drama on album closer 'Kindness.' for the more traditional minded, 'Shining Shining' is pure pastoral bliss, with bright piano accents and lush harmonies. Through it all, Florence's understated, warm voice carries the record, wrapping you like a warm blanket on an autumn evening. The album features a roster of world-class musicians, including bassist Jon Button (Sheryl Crow, Robben Ford), drummer James McAlister (Sufjan Stevens, Bill Frisell), and guitarist Danny Donnelly. Garth Hudson of the Band, Kevin's personal hero, is featured on two of the album's tracks.