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The Spectator
Martin Sexton Makes Acoustic Folk Sexier
by Lexi Nisita '12Arts & Entertainment Writer
In a genre overflowing with indistinguishable amateurs bypassing creativity in favor of getting laid, acoustic guitarist and lyricist Martin Sexton sets himself apart. His sound is a memorable combination of many influences from traditional country to what can best be described as gospel (check out "Happy" from his most recent album), and his lyrics have a poetic sensibility that is both simple and sweet without being boring or sickening.
Sexton, who performed on Thursday, April 30, is one of the more commercially successful artists to play Hamilton's Acoustic Coffeehouse series. His untraceable accent and amiable features make him an immediately endearing performer, and his music doesn't disappoint. It is accessible even to listeners who are not normally fans of acoustic music, because it is decidedly unclassifiable in style. He encompasses American folk and grassroots music from coast to coast, and even crosses the Atlantic with a cover of the Beatles' "With A Little Help From My Friends." You don't have to sport a t-shirt tan to like this kind of country music, and city folk won't turn up their noses either. In fact, the only listening requirement is a willingness to feel happy and fulfilled.
Martin Sexton is like a more interesting version of Ray LaMontagne. In fact, he has all the best qualities of many of his contemporaries without any of the muddled strumming and dated lyrical stand-bys. As is the case with most music of his genre, he does not exactly push the envelope in content and lyrics—but in his case, there's no need. Good music, as far as the acoustic soul genre is concerned, has the luxury of familiarity because it worships the everyday and the everyman instead of glorifying celebrity and the exceptional. Lyrically, he thankfully avoids the common pitfall of sappy, dripping romantic clichés in favor of a more metaphorical style. While statements like, "last night I awoke to the sound of a dream on fire" (from the song "Women and Wine") have perhaps more aesthetic value than actual meaning, they are undoubtedly poetic and grant a unique lyrical signature. He is unafraid to mix sounds: whistling, belting, guest appearances and soft crooning can often all be found within the same song. Sexton is a creative guitarist as well. His chords are pure in sound, simple in technique, and remarkably memorable. You won't run into the all-too-common problem of songs that sound like carbon copies until you reach the chorus.
Sexton is a rare artist who breaks the bonds of genre and expectation. Rather than stick to the formula laid in the first few bars, his songs morph in style and sound throughout. His style is personal yet accessible, appealing to all without being dogmatic or preachy. He will surprise you, but never too much and regardless of whether you're letting it all hang out on the dance floor or coveting a picturesque romantic moment, if Martin Sexton's playing in the background you can always expect a good time.