In Nacub

'In Nacub' represents Tim McCarty's departure from the ShyAway moniker, at least temporarily. The result is a 9-song album of solid singer-songwriter tunes that truly represent his style like never before. The collection starts with the rainy warning 'South of the Tracks,' an alt-country gem lined with bluesy guitar and haunting vocals. Justin Millhouse drums on this cut and several others on the disc. The song follows a young girl raised poor- and worse yet poorly- on her journey to find herself, and ends in tragedy. 'Look at You' kills any hint of depression left from the previous song, but maintains the solemn mood. Harrison style guitars wrap around Lennon-ish vocals while a mandolin helps drive the rhythm in this throwback lovesong. Tim takes on Oasis' 'Songbird,' as if it is his own, and keeps the Beatles influence at the forefront while intertwining some folky influence. Perhaps the catchiest number on the album, 'Stare Into the Son' demonstrates Tim's affinity for melodic electric guitar accents, but more importantly solid female vocals. Carrie Davidson brings just the right harmonies to the mix on this one- clear, sincere, and spot-on. This song is one of inspiration and faith. 'Fade Into You' is Tim's take on the 1990's shoe-gazer classic by Mazzy Star. It is haunting but beautiful, reflective and possibly even inspiring depending upon your view. 'Little Rabbit' is somewhat of an experiment. Partially a social commentary of sorts, and partially an upbeat pop song, all in very few words. 'Mother Nature's Son' is a sincere take on Paul McCartney's earthy White Album ditty. Tim's version is stripped down yet still full and passionate. Paul should be proud. If he comments, we'll let you know. The album winds down with two of the prettiest. On 'Hello in There,' Carrie is featured again on harmonies, and kills them. This John Prine classic is delivered in a more pop-rock way, but maintains the somberness of the message it delivers. The electric guitar weaves around the rhythm and accents the raw emotion of the story. A very apt closer, 'Winter' is a solid folk style story song. But as with much of Tim's work, the melodies and harmonies tend to mean more than the lyrics themselves and the guitars find their places accordingly. Recorded at Fuse Studios in Lincoln, Nebraska, 'In Nacub' is not what you might expect from musicians in the area in terms of style. You are invited to share your comments on the songs- just try to be as honest as the music is. For more, check Tim McCarty out on Facebook (music).