When the first two influences listed are John Prine and Ween, it would be only natural to wonder if Chris Robeson was mentioning "King of the Road" Roger Miller or Mission of Burma (and then some) Roger Miller. Robeson is an immaculate songwriter; his pieces come together like the finest woodworking. But he isn't interested in convention. He distorts his voice, slots in some ace tangents and generally charts his own path, all within that ever-spiraling-outward catchall genre folks still call americana.

Chris Robeson Euphoriphobia (self-released)

The sound, like the arrangements, is just so. Robeson uses stereo to great effect and has clearly put in a massive effort to give this album a grand, timeless feel. Given the clear mastery demonstrated, it's pretty astonishing to find that this is Robeson's first effort.

But there are lot of folks in Austin who ferment their wares until they're just right. Despite his varied influences, Robeson rarely finds a false step. He's clearly honed all of these songs and knew exactly how he wanted them to sound. Even so, the execution is staggering.

An album that hits on many levels. I have no idea what Robeson will do with less time to craft and shape his music. There's a reason most second albums are generally less than. But I wouldn't bet against anyone who can create something as luminous as this.

Jon Worley