Fifth LP from Austin-via-Ohio song shark Bloom strikes with characteristic wit and charm, but also a sense of thankfulness and mortality following recovery from a 2017 stroke. “Soft Landings,” “Harbor,” and “Still Life Composition” all softly take stock of life in the singer’s gentle tenor, balanced against the whimsy of “Blessings in Disguise” and “Outskirts of Paris.” Bloom keeps his melodies easy, but the album lulls more than lingers in its bittersweetness.

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This article appears in April 19 • 2019.

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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.