Griffin House

The understated instrumentation and stripped production of Lost & Found, Griffin House's Nettwerk America debut, lends the Ohio songwriter's work a quietly rewarding intensity. With most songs running by on his thin but inviting vocal, rangy acoustic guitar, and a mix of atmospherics and quiet percussion, House's songs can avoid being qualified alongside the more mainstream roots pop of Pete Yorn or Josh Kelley. Sometimes House tailgates his influences just a little too closely, whether that means Jeff Buckley ("Waterfall"), Springsteen ("Liberty Line"), or even Coldplay ("Why Won't You Believe?"). But this just means he needs a little seasoning. House still has plenty to offer on Lost & Found, particularly in the gentle dobro meander of "Just a Dream," or opener "Amsterdam," where he plays the melancholic, naïve American to a tee. (Nice touches of toy piano, too.) "Missed My Chance" is another highlight, particularly in its lyrics. Overall, Lost & Found is a nice introduction to Griffin House, even if its overly referential songwriting discourages an extended stay. Fans of shaggily sensitive singers in gingham cowboy shirts, take note. ~ Johnny Loftus, Rovi