6 song EP
Pokey Lafarge has been calling Central Maine home for the past few years. His latest release, Travelin’ With Pokey LaFarge: Voice and Guitar Vol. I, leads off with a version of the classic folk tune “Ain’t No Grave” done as a duet with Addie Hamilton. The album presents the songwriter in a stripped-down, intimate setting. Built entirely around voice and acoustic guitar, the six-song release feels less like a studio production and more like a late-night living-room session. Without a band or elaborate arrangements, LaFarge’s warm, slightly weathered voice carries the emotional weight, while his rhythmic guitar work keeps the performances grounded in folk and early-country traditions. The minimalism highlights LaFarge’s storytelling instincts. His lyrics feel conversational and lived-in, sketching small scenes of travel, longing, and everyday Americana. Melodies remain simple but memorable, leaning into the charm that has defined much of his work. Because of it’s bare presentation, the EP may feel understated to listeners who prefer the colorful swing, blues, and ragtime elements that are often associated with Pokey Lafarge’s song catalog. However, this release acts as a snapshot of the artist at his most direct; unpolished, personal, and rooted in tradition.Sometimes all it takes is a guitar and a good story. (Lois Turpedro)