To write a beautiful song – lyrically & musically – is no easy feat, though often we’re misled by the talents of those able to do it. Josh Garrels is one of those talents, and his song “White Owl” (from his June release, Love & War & The Sea In Between) is one of those songs.

Based in Portland, Oregon, Garrels plays and sings a folk/neo-soul blend. His music reminds one of Bon Iver and Iron & Wine – simple, elegant, and poetic. Not only are his lyrics lovely and thoughtful but the music that comprises their backdrop is equally so.

The song starts epically: a lone guitar strumming blossoms into soft ambiance with piano and other luscious sounds. The song boasts a bevy of instruments (strings, French horn, two electric guitars, classical guitar, bass, alto flute) and every one is heard clearly as they combine to create a full and euphonious picture.

As Garrels’ soulful and dynamic voice sings about finding your own way, the strings pluck and sway with the guitar(s), and other instruments, constantly keeping on task. The song ends as gracefully as it began with the strings being the last to softly fade out.

With a picturesque background dancing between dark and light tones, and light inspirations to balance hard truths “White Owl” displays a great range while maintaining a softly-glowing vibrancy. Check out the rest of Love & War & The Sea In Between on Garrels’ Bandcamp, available for free download, and the Mason Jar Music video (>http://vimeo.com/masonjarmusic/garrels) featuring Josh Garrels performing with musicians playing strings, handbells, and wind instruments – very nicely performed and captured.