Afie Jurvanen is a Canadian of Finnish descent who has a recent history of playing guitar with notable musicians such as Jack Johnson, Great Lake Swimmers, and Feist. In 2009 he released his first solo album under the recording name Bahamas.
, Jurvaven's third and latest album, is a unique fusion of folk and pop rock with a dash of jazz. Through first-person lyrics, he sings about new attractions, difficult partings, shaking off bitterness, and owning up to blame. On the track “Can’t Take You with Me,” for example, Jurvanen soothingly sings: “I can't take you with me now I know it /Though the love was in me I did not show it.” That is just one of the many melodies on the album enhanced by orchestral accompaniments.
Several songs showcase Jurvaven’s graceful mastery of the guitar; he is reportedly self-taught, which makes his playing all the more impressive. This fresh and pleasant album bears repeated listens and will satisfy listeners looking for warm, mellow music with lyrical depth. (Brushfire Records/Universal Records)