Primarily, this release explores emotional depths with a methodical musical approach. In short, Larson creates soul music for the heart - - speaking to those in love, those falling out of love, or those who are simply reflecting on love’s essential nature to confound while it holds us in its grip (“ I don’t understand this love/ I don’t understand at all”, he sings in “Just Because A Man Expects Me To”). Larson expertly peels away layers of artifice to arrive at an honest and true conclusion. Even if that conclusion provides few real answers, the journey and the exploration is valuable in itself. Each track on Jealous God adheres to this one fine and deeply moving principle.

“One Perfect Stranger” brings on delicate-sounding horns and gentle key- board arrangements while Larson sings with genuine feeling and careful phrasing, contemplating the probability of greener grass on the other side. “Just Because A Man Expects Me To” is a poppy duet which Larson sings with his girlfriend (?), adding elements of modulated keyboarding towards the end, while begging the question: How should we truly be if we are to be really true? This is the central question here, and it appears time and time again on this disc. “What if I Fade” is reverent in its questioning, pondering the transience of existence with nicely plied organs and emotionally pensive rendering. With caressing strings and gospel-leanings, “We Don’t Need Anybody…” is harmonious and liberating, while “Someone Else’s Song” takes on the question of faithfulness in love relationships (similarly to that old Squeeze song, “Someone Else’s Bell”).

Larson worked with some pretty ingenious producers on this recording. Clive Langer and Alan Winstanley (known for their work with Elvis Costello, Bush, Madness and David Bowie) provide a full and lively foundation for Larson’s genius to flourish. His songs are to the point, poetically crafted, and smartly written. This isn’t a heavy rocker’s delight by any stretch of the imagination. Instead, Jealous God is poignant, joyful and immensely appealing in a simple inviting way. It’s a real good listen for those who want to listen to something that is simply really, really good.