Within the first twenty seconds of Jeremy Lee Given’s (@jeremyleeusa) title track, “Old Flames”, a smile swept across my face in response to the obvious greatness I’d just discovered. His authentic southern voice is a dreamy one, dripping with conviction, passion and sincerity. Given that I’m such an incredible sucker for shakers, when those glorious little instruments were brought in at the 2:35 mark, I officially fell in love, transforming my smile into a proper grin.

Given’s debut album, Old Flames, was originally going to be a country EP, which many would expect from a man born in Charleston and raised in Knoxville. However, when this southern fella made a move up north to Boston, he started hanging with a new crowd of musicians who influenced and transformed his style. The result is a wonderful mix of bedroom pop/lo-fi/southern/folk that’s all his own. In the last few tracks, though, he slows things down and lets his Knoxville roots break the surface. His track “People Don’t” is enrapturing with its vulnerability, and the simplistic pairing of Given and his guitar is flawless, fluid, poignant perfection.

Like the title track “Old Flames”, each song stands on its own as a surefire grin inducer, demonstrating the various aspects of Given’s musical mind. His current studies in film scoring can be heard within the intricate layering of strategic reverb and intelligent harmonies. Also, the album’s analog sound, which was accomplished by Will Lakrtiz meticulously running each track through VHS and cassette tapes, achieves a genuine and personal vibe that sparks an even deeper longing to see this gentleman play live.