The new album “this is not folk.” by John Klirr resembles a short story, dreamt up and presented through 10 tracks. The first song serves as a prologue, precipitating the tale and all the highs and lows that will emerge. The discrepancy between “wading through walls” and “the journey is its own reward“ peaks in the middle of the album, emphasizing and begging the question – “Who is John Kirr?” Without trying too frantically to resolve the conflict.

The epilogue brings the story to a comforting conclusion, conveying a certain acceptance. Sonically situated somewhere between blues rock and folk, John Klirr tells a story through a condensed cast that invites one to listen.