If the artwork of Wilson Marks’ sophomore LP doesn’t signal the uncanny, haunting contortions of Peregrine, opener “Save the Nest” sets the tone. The local jazz marksman takes a folkier turn, resulting in a collision of Nick Drake with Ralph White on “Couldn’t Drain the Devil,” his patient, nasal vocals floating in sustain atop twisted chords and unexpected progressions. Piano tracks “First and Last” and “Tacit” unfold like Randy Newman’s softer moments, and “Petrichor” paints a dark, atmospheric, instrumental mural sliding into the more heavily jazz-influenced second half. Mesmerizing and endlessly surprising.

***.5

This article appears in June 29 • 2018.

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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.