Dawson Brooks
“Troubled Mind”
(Legend Recordings Nashville)
“Troubled Mind” by Dawson Brooks took us by complete surprise when we pressed play this morning. It’s a song that could have easily been penned by Andrew Bird, with a deceptively simple melody and perfectly placed harmonies. Instead of Bird’s trademark violin, Brooks sprinkles some delicate banjo fills on top for a little extra seasoning. “Troubled Mind” feels like it’s a song that has existed for years, not tethered down to a single year or even decade. Perhaps it’s the timeless topic of being there for someone in their time of need, or the clever Icarus imagery effortlessly slid into the verse. Perhaps it’s the recording itself, raw and intimate and reminiscent of Iron and Wine. The track feels less like something being produced in a studio and more like something you’re lucky to witness unexpectedly at the campfire or local dive bar. Clocking in at 2:30, “Troubled Mind” is short and sweet. Let’s order another round (or put another log on the fire) and hear some more from Dawson Brooks, please.
“Troubled Mind” is certainly a highlight of 2023. Keep an eye on this guy.
Highly recommended.
https://www.facebook.com/dawsonbrooksmusic
