Listening to this CD for the first time, I can't but help to hear the undertones of a quiet, relaxed, subdued Jimmy Buffett vocal influence (especially on 'Coconut Bay'!). That said, possibly even a little Ringo Starr too. Not to say that it sounds like Jimmy or Ringo singing here, far from it, but Jay's second album sounds like they were, especially Buffett, an inspiration, at least.

Anyway, that aside, singer-songwriter Roy Jay recently released his sophomore album, 'Fairfax Avenue', and I have to say it is a definite grower. Combining blues, roots rock, and groove-driven tracks, Jay co-wrote all of the music with the very talented, and I hope much sought after, Chris Seefried (Quincy Jones, Roseanne Cash).

Adding to the musical adventure, 'Fairfax Avenue' also features musical contributions from David Immergluck (Counting Crows) on guitar and Rob Wasserman on bass (Ratdog).

Finally, down to the nitty-gritty of the actual sounds. Sure, some will say that it's, well, a wee bit too "safe" these tunes. Too many mid-tempo tracks that just trot hand in hand down the 10-track line. Me, yep, I can see that, but what I also feel/hear is the fun, the artistry behind the lyrics and the quality of production too. This is a great album to wave goodbye to the summer with, and prep for the fall.