Christian Simeon sure is an interesting cat. While he draws inspiration from such titan songwriters as Steve Earle, Lucinda Williams and Anders Osborne, what’s heard here is nothing like that. His usage of an acoustic guitar to write with is, perhaps, the biggest common denominator with the aforementioned but after that, his penchant for weaving harmonic, bright-sounding chords recalls another idol: arty rocker/singer-songwriter Daniel Lanois. In recording these seven originals, Simeon played guitar, bass, drums and piano while a guest steel guitarist (un-credited) added textural fill-in. Indie folk probably best describes his music that, arrangements and production-wise, are influenced by Lord Huron and Hiss Golden Messenger.

Most songs deal with relationships of one type or another. The buoyant “Start It Up” attempts to jump-start an amorous situation. At the other end of the spectrum, a relationship meets tragic closure on “Crashing Down.” “Good Times/Bad Times” and “Moodswings” deal with persevering through the rocky times with the understanding there’ll always be the occasional rough day. On the latter, Simeon duets with himself by alternating verses an octave apart sung in his raspy, soulish voice. The line “never, never change … I will always love you” is particularly moving.

The cautiously optimistic “Road to Somewhere” deviates from the theme of relationships by advising to rise above prejudice and hate, perhaps the most provocative thought of the proceedings.

While the vibe is often chill, there are plenty of beautiful moments and heartfelt sentiments expressed throughout, something Simeon will never have to apologize for.