He may share the same surname, but Doug Paisley holds little in common with that more famous Paisley who bears the name Brad. Hailing from Toronto Canada, Doug takes an everyman approach to his craft via a soft strum and an affable folk finesse, a far cry from the commercial country branding that Brad’s parlayed into superstardom. But while his songs may seem rather unassuming, they resonate with resilient melodies and a heartfelt delivery that sounds simultaneously both weathered and refreshing. The lilt and sway of a steel guitar illuminates “We Weather,” while somber keyboards enhance the graceful balladry of “Take Me with You” and “What About Us.” Mostly though, this material finds a comfortable middle ground that sounds like the essence of ‘70s soft rock, a sound that would make James Taylor or Jackson Browne beam with approval. It’s also a refreshing shift in stance from the overly mannered, self-conscious approach that’s plagued many singer/songwriter types in recent years. That makes Paisley’s premiere effort one of the best debut discs in recent memory. (No Quarter)
