Listening to Daniel Martin Moore’s In The Cool Of The Day is, in a nutshell, quite a simple task. Whispering piano parts, vocals as smooth as butter, and a bright rhythm section make for an easy listen. Everything about this album is a staple for minimalism (although almost to a fault), from the orchestration to the concepts in the lyrics. Yet In The Cool Of The Day is unique to it’s genre for it’s ability  to connect on a spiritual level, offering a delightful (even effortless) take on “life” and “Christ.” Often resembling the vibe of classic church music, the project was inspired by Moore’s favorite childhood hymns, and brings to the folk genre a level of 19^th century Southern nostalgia.

The opening track, “All Ye Tenderhearted,” begins with an acapella verse, “Lay down your lonesome burdens, come and rest,” alluding to the prominent theme of the album. This sense of peace carries throughout the record, especially in a pleasant rendition of “It Is Well With My Soul.” Instrumentally, every song is extremely understated, but with a careful ear certain elements standout. “Up Above My Head” proves Daniel Martin Moore’s guitar playing ability, sewing together impressive picking with a tasteful bass run. The closing track, “Set Things Aright” layers beautiful stringed instruments, lending from that classic “jamming-fiddle” country twang.

One problem I have with it though is that there is so much restraint in the instrumentation and songwriting that it could be considered “too safe.” There is little change dynamically; so much so that whether fast or slow, each song seems to bleed into the next one without any diversity. Ultimately, little stands out in regards to individual tracks, but as a whole the album is a unique take on spirituality in folk music.

Cross Jack Johnson vocals with the feeling one gets from Feist’s The Reminder and add a spiritual bent and there you will find Daniel Martin Moore’s debut album. It’s not radical by any means , but collectively the record  leaves one with the feeling of being home and at peace. For fans of Iron and Wine and The Swell Season; you’ll be pleased with In The Cool Of The Day.

(Sub Pop Records, 2013 Fourth Avenue, Third Floor, Seattle, WA, 98121)