On those songs where he relays a story from his own perspective, there is something about the manner in which he is able to convey his thoughts and feelings that make them seem less a personal statement, and more an expression of universal sentiments about a set of circumstances. He's not telling us how to feel; instead he has the ability to show us a more compassionate way of being without lecturing us. He is able to let us walk a mile in the shoes of people most of us wouldn't normally have the time of day for, and let us see just how a person could end up in a place we don't understand.

Tom Marron plays violin on the songs that are presented on Songbones in harmony both with Grayson's guitar work and with a song's melody. Not only does it sound beautiful, it adds a layer of atmosphere to the songs that makes them even more powerful. I've not heard songs like "Mermaid", "Washboard Lisa", or "I See You" performed by Grayson and his band, but if these are only their bare bones, they must be close to overwhelming powerful.

Songbones is the first collection of music that I've ever heard by Grayson Capps, and it leaves me wanting to hear much more of his work. For people like me who aren't familiar with him, it's a great introduction to his work, and I think for those of you who do know his material, the versions of the songs on this disc will deepen your appreciation for his talent. Grayson Capps writes songs of power and grace, and Songbones is a wonderful showcase of that talent.