As far as first albums go, Rusty James has decided not to pull any punches. Wishing Well is a solid debut from the Nova Scotia-based singer-songwriter, a collection of warm and engaging tracks that help to cement James’s voice as an artist.
With a moniker like Rusty James, mainly country influences are to be expected. While his own blend of alternative country is something James delivers with ease, he doesn’t let himself be tied down to one genre. In fact, the opening track, “Broken Hearts”, is carried by a bluesy riff that takes center stage towards the last quarter of the song. Meanwhile, “Same Old Story” has more of an indie-rock flavour to it.
It’s also one of the many instances of James’s vocals being lifted even higher by vocalist Carmen Townsend. She features on the majority of the tracks on the album, but the two’s vocals mesh particularly well on this song. Her presence is also a subtle but effective touch on “Mad About You”, a love song with surprising bite.
“Please don’t take me for a goddamn fool,” James warns, in a startling juxtaposition against the twinkling instrumentals and otherwise tender sentiments.
The album’s single, “Miracles”, is a touching foray into the dark waters of addiction. The croon of pedal steel gives this track the purest country influences and is an apt backdrop for the emotional subject matter being explored. The proceeds from the song go to Talbot House, a support home in Frenchvale, Nova Scotia dedicated to helping men with addictions with their recovery. All of this is in honour of James’s late father, who overcame his own struggles with addiction and spent the second half of his life helping others do the same.
James chooses to get experimental on the closing track, ditching the downhome charm and carefully crafted lyrics for ambient guitar and distorted vocals. The vibes fall on a fine line between eerie and peaceful, but it’s a satisfying conclusion all the same. Though James sets himself up to be a modest everyman, this glimpse into untapped depths is enough to hook listeners and have them avidly anticipating his next move.