Seneko

Soul Numbers is the third EP from Connecticut singer-songwriter Seneko. The record features five laidback slices of Americana focussing on the risks taken and compromises made in the name of love. The record was recorded in the country music capital giving his songs that crisp Nashville sheen of southern fried piano and organ, slide guitar and sultry soulful female background vocals.

The album seems to be sonically divided into three sections. The first is the cautionary tale of 'The Devil You Don't Know'. Project mastermind Stan Olshefski tells the tale of a silver-tongued rival stealing the affections of his main squeeze. He pleads with a plain-spoken earnestness with the backing of singers Kendra Chantelle, Nicole Boggs and Maureen Murphy backing up his beckons. Pumping piano and swirling guitar licks are played with Nashville mastery. Ducking down to a subtle breakdown before rising up once more for a final chorus.

The second part comprises of two songs of lighter fare the semi-spiritual 'Callin' of the Cause' and the surprise lesbian tale of 'Jenny's With Irene'. Competently played but ultimately not overly memorable. The last two tracks offer the most depth both lyrically and melodically. The single 'Lost On Me' sees Seneko hitting his stride. The intriguing mystery of the opening minor chords draws you in and Olshefski finds his voice with a low-key croon. The backup singers deliver a supportive coo reminiscent of Leonard Cohen's highly effective backing spirits. The closer 'One Hot Shot' talks of the gambles it takes to get any romance going.

Seneko's latest EP is pretty standard Americana singer-songwriter material. The backing band is top-notch and 'Lost On Me' shows promise. An album full of material of that calibre would grab some attention.