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The second album from Scott Mann is a superior collection of tunes in the true spirit of the singer/songwriter tradition.  Sam’s Acoustic Soul is an acoustic treat that features the vocal, musical, and lyrical talents of Mann.  Relying on primarily his guitar and vocals to carry the album and little else, Mann truly understands the essence of what an acoustic album is all about; on his second effort, he hits the bulls-eye. 

Taking a listen to Mann’s vocals instantly draws a similarity to Jim Croce in both style and tone.  It is both sweet and unbridled.   And it becames a joy to listen to after the initial images of Croce are swept away from the mind.  Coupled with his simple guitar arrangements, Mann’s voice becomes the second instrument unto itself, omitting the need for anything to accompany him.  Rather, anything else would detract rather than augment. 

Sound wise, Sam’s Acoustic Soul mainly stays in ballad territory and with tunes offering sage advice such as “Time will heal the wound between us/Why lie to me?”  A '70s feel (yes, the Croce effect!) is given to the emotional “Anything I Can Say.”  

The only stumbles are in his attempt at playing the blues in “The Unemployment Blues,” a contrived attempt at the proverbial down-on-your-luck storyteller song.  Also, according to the album packaging, there were supposed to be ten songs.  I only counted nine on my CD, with the track “Aaron’s Song” missing from the mix.   

This album is highly recommended for those seeking pure acoustic pleasure. 

Noel Lloyd 2/15/03