Like all Black Hen releases, this record is full of fine musicians. Steve Dawson plays guitar, pedal steel and Weissenborn, Jeremy Holmes adds groove, touch and taste on bass and mandolin. Gary Craig lends wonderfully inventive percussion. Keri Latimer’s tuneful and airy voice is a great foil to Matt’s earthy one. Fats Kaplin contributes wizardry on fiddle, ukulele, banjo and harmonica.

Matt Patershuk’s Grandad used to say, “God loves a trier”. He meant that there is worth, and value in trying; the act of making an effort is redemptive, regardless of outcome. This is An Honest Effort, about folks trying. Matt is a singer and songwriter first, valuing simplicity, but incorporating the small details that bring a story to life and make it relatable. Though his songs aren’t devoid of metaphor, you’re not left guessing about what the song is about when you’re done listening. Together the songs paint musical pictures that are a great counterpoint to the lyrics. With the musical on show, heartfelt vocals, and inventive yet relatable subject matter, this is not just a good try, it succeeds. Good effort!