Mikial Robertson exudes warmth and brotherly love on his new release, Fireside Philosopher. Proving his versatility, this nine track journey through everything from folk to world music will have you smiling and nodding along on first listen. Many of the tracks are misleading in the best way-having poignant subject matter working in tandem with soothing rhythms and harmonies. Sleep Walkin is a perfect example of this arrangement, with its thrumming percussion, courtesy of the gracious Steve Rowland, and bright melody disguising socially conscious lyrics “It seems everyone is sleep walkin/walking up the street/It seems everyone is sleep walking/ busy counting their sheep/ It seems everyone is sleep walking busy shuffling their feet” . The sweet sounding Buzz is proof of Mikial’s ability to combine gentle vocals with his guitar in a way that brings the guitar to life, as if it had a voice of its own. For me, the most enjoyable aspect of this up-tempo record was being lured into a comfortable state, feeling very content, only to be floored when Mikial would put down an exacting verse or lyric. On the eccentric song, Praying Mantis, the smooth tempo is punctuated by contemplative quips: “ I searched for my redemption, at the local train station/They tortured me with religion, until I gave into temptation”. On stage, Mikial loses none of the directness or approachability that is written all over Fireside. He easily connects with the crowd and conveys a real intimacy in his performance. Though admittedly it’s hard not to be a bit awe-inspired when he plays a beautiful melody on guitar, all the while looping it, so he can play over it with an even more complex riff. The album and live approach truly leaves nothing to be desired. Dare I say it? It’s a complete package. Taylor Gabrysiak The Muncie Voice