(Psychedelic folk) Nick Castro & The Poison Tree - Further From Grace - 2005, MP3 (tracks), 192 kbps

A member of the new millennium's flock of psychedelic folk revivalists, L.A.'s Nick Castro surrounds himself with a changing lineup of musicians for each expansive, eccentric outing, although he started out practically solo on his debut, A Spy in the House of God. As Castro's backing band has changed, so too has his sound grown and matured. His most finely tuned, fully realized ensemble, the Young Elders, with which he made 2006's gorgeous Come into Our House, consists of members from an array of relevant experimental acts, including Cul de Sac and Current 93. Castro's style draws from an internationally broad spectrum of music, and as a result his sound is an amalgamation of '60s British folk, Appalachian balladry, acid rock, and classic Middle Eastern music. No doubt the many talented multi-instrumentalists he works with help make this melting pot of influences successful; the music feels as deeply poignant and personal as it is universal and far-reaching. Nick Castro excels at serene expression, flawlessly crafting songs and psychedelic jams wrought with tradition and introspective, relaxed beauty.