Rob Thompson - Dust (2023)

A classy solo offering from the Storys' Rob Thompson, Dust is an album for lazy evenings in with the stereo. The disc is as tightly melodic as the Storys' ever are, but inflected with a personal touch that only amplifies what a remarkable songwriter Thompson is. It is a somewhat parsimonious collection -- just nine tracks include a "radio edit" of the opening title track -- but it's a richly rewarding one all the same. Opening the disc, that same title track spills out of the speakers with electrifying allure, setting the stage for all that is to follow: the gentle "Could You Come Around" and "Standing Still," the electrifying "The Director's Cut," and, best of all, the wryly titled "Watching How All the Dust's Drawn to the TV." Exquisitely self-produced by Thompson and drummer Tim Hamill, Dust deserves all the attention you can give it. © Dave Thompson