Teddy Thompson — Separate Ways

Teddy Thompson pretty much disappeared after being dropped from Virgin Records following the release of his self-titled 2000 debut. But he's finally rebounded with a sophomore album and a new label. Musically, Separate Ways is mostly upbeat on the surface. Beneath that, however, Thompson's lyrics spin tales of struggles with clinical depression and heartbreak. Thompson possesses a warm, smooth tenor voice that can take on a country twang ("I Should Get Up"), turn tremulous ("Think Again") and belt out a Ryan Adams-like lament ("You Made It"). Separate Ways has its pop moments, but Thompson stays true to his folk roots and draws in some country-rock and blues. Guest stars include dad Richard Thompson, Garth Hudson (The Band) on guitar and keys, and backing vocals by Rufus and Martha Wainwright.

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