Possessing a voice as rough and real as a corn-fed Neil Young, an eye for detail as compact as a poet's, and a knack for forlorn yet catchy melodies that would make Brian Wilson proud, Freedy Johnston has become one of the most respected singer\u002Fsongwriters in rock. For his fifth album, Johnston turns down the amps and navigates the introspective path that's served him so well in the past. Changed Your Mind and While I Wait for You operate as modest pop-rock elevated by irresistible choruses, but the bittersweet Pretend It's Summer and Emily reveal Johnston's folk and literary leanings. Producer T Bone Burnett (with Roger Moutenot) captures Johnston's gentle grace with a roomy sound. Session drummer extraordinaire Jim Keltner applies his relaxed, rock-solid touch while subtle electric guitar accents punctuate the sly hooks. Blue Days will stand as an understated addition to Johnston's canon.