James' smooth, soulful voice contrasts effectively with Canada's sharp twang, but more importantly, the Texan's subtler style soothes the raw nerves his counterpart so boldly plucks. His kiss-off “Burden” starts as a simmering waltz that eventually bubbles into a roiling crescendo, while his funky plea “Prayer for the Lonely” channels its despair through a potent groove reminiscent of Booker T. & the MG's. James closes the album with “Sweet Lord,” a lovely acoustic hymn that will have open-minded fans singing The Departed's praises and hoping that a follow-up will come soon.
— Brandy McDonnell
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