Ben Mallott

Look Good, Feel Good

Ben Mallott’s pearl snaps and patterned cowboy boots on the cover of his debut LP are a bit misleading. Although he’s backed at times by some solid steel and gently chugging rhythms, the Austinite’s propelled by his impressively soulful vocals. Opener “Heartbreaks” showcases an impressively subtle range, and though there are touches of Damien Jurado, Daniel Lanois, and even Ray LaMontagne’s mellow grit, Mallott winds with dexterous versatility. Unexpected horns blaze mariachi on “Purgatory’s Last Massage Parlor” and Memphis on “I Want It All,” while “Love Is Cold Water” bounces with B-3 organ and a New Orleans’ jazz romp at the end. The sway behind Mallott’s low, breathy swells on “The Artful Dodger” counter the rockabilly piano romp of “Cold Feet.” Eliza Gilkyson lends her vocal magic to “Shotgun Suzy,” and tender numbers such as “Leaving,” “Over Time,” and the darkly twisted “Just Like Angels” are all beautifully wrought.

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This article appears in November 28 • 2008.

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Doug Freeman has been writing for the Austin Chronicle since 2007, covering the arts and music scene in the city. He is originally from Virginia and earned his Masters Degree from the University of Texas. He is also co-editor of The Austin Chronicle Music Anthology, published by UT Press.