Elijah Johnston - “Greatest Hits”

SXSW 2023 - OEB Score: 7; Popularity Index: 1

Pairs Well With…Lord Huron, Father John Misty, Fruit Bats

There’s something nostalgic about Elijah Johnston’s 2022 record Day Off. Not that this is a throwback rock record, rather the easy-sounding, alt-country tones and lyrics that sing of growing up among family and friends come together in natural comfort. Mostly sticking in mid-tempo and mild modes, Johnston rarely gets too minimal or maximal while he shares his grounded tales. This pitching-up-the-center quality doesn’t invite boredom however, Johnston holding interest through his poignant songwriting that accompanies the light vibes of his music. It’s a sound that been honed since 2016 debut record Moonbeam and Day Off is already his fifth full-length, not a surprise given the maturity in both Johnston’s writing and performance on this underrated gem. Check out Elijah Johnston with fellow Georgian travelers at Athens in Austin Thursday night of SXSW at Antone’s. (Kevin McStravick)