February 15 2024

“The Sound of Falling Snow” is a beautiful song in the second half of seasoned singer/songwriter, Jeff Talmadge’s new record, Sparrow. The gentle tune captures the quiet moments of life – those seconds that it is so quiet that it is possible to hear “the sound of falling snow.” It is a fitting summary of Sparrow’s appeal. Talmadge’s songs are tailor made for silent mornings or evenings when one is in the mood for contemplation of the subtle highs and lows of life.

Talmadge has a Kris Kristofferson-like vocal delivery, leading a small Americana band through his reflective stories of beleaguered protagonists staring at the crossroads: Young men, for good or ill, unable to control their passion, ghosts on European trains, and those with hope in their hearts for more romance, more peace, and more abundance.

Talmadge’s melodic turns are subtle – sometimes too subtle as a few of the songs closely resemble each other. However, he and his band’s measured delivery is also effective. The slight lift in Talmadge’s voice, or the short flare from one of the instrumentalists, underlines the emotional depth and resonance of Talmadge’s lyrical material.

Sparrow flies into the pain of life, but always with hope and love. Talmadge’s authentic and honest songwriting is worthy of time and attention.

David Masciotra (www.davidmasciotra.com) is the author of four books, including Barack Obama: Invisible Man (Eyewear Publishing, 2017) and Mellencamp: American Troubadour (University Press of Kentucky, 2015).

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