End of Amnesia (RSD 2021)

M. Ward's reissue of "End of Amnesia" for Record Store Day 2021 is a delightful throwback to a simpler time when beards were cool and folk music reigned supreme. Ward's signature gravelly vocals and intricate guitar work shine through on this album, transporting listeners to a world where everything is a little bit sepia-toned and every sentence ends with a wistful sigh. From the opening track, "End of Amnesia," Ward sets the tone for the album with his heartfelt lyrics and melodic guitar lines. Tracks like "Color of Water" and "Undertaker" showcase Ward's mastery of storytelling, while the instrumental "Neptune's Net" allows his guitar skills to take centre stage. The reissue also includes three bonus tracks, including a cover of David Bowie's "Let's Dance" that is both unexpected and strangely fitting. Ward's interpretation of the song adds a layer of Americana charm that Bowie himself would surely have appreciated. Overall, "End of Amnesia" is a charming and nostalgic look back at M. Ward's early work. It's the perfect album to put on when you're feeling a bit nostalgic for a time you never actually lived through. So grab your flannel shirt, pour yourself a cup of fair-trade coffee, and let M. Ward's gentle melodies wash over you like a warm, fuzzy blanket.