Doug Hoekstra - "Around the Margins" (Inbetweens) *** by Mary Houlihan

For his latest release, literate folk-rocker Doug Hoekstra tackles a diverse and ambitious roster of 14 original songs and one cover (Bob Dylan's "Isis") that perfecly compliment his Leonard Cohen-like vocals.  Weaving in bits of rap, psychedelia and gospel, Hoekstra fashions a folk hybrid that testifies to his tanets as a songwriter.

The finer details of the human condition never escape his eye as he writes of chance meetings, simple acts of kindness and intricate family matters.   Alluring background vocals and a mix of unexpected sounds give the songs an added dimension that becomes more evocative with each listen.

Note:  Doug Hoekstra performs at 10 p.m. Saturday at Schuba's, 3159 N. Southport

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