Steve Forbert's first collection of new songs since
Evergreen Boy in 2000,
Just Like There's Nothin' to It boasts a pair of fine new tunes, the well-observed "I Just Work Here" and the buoyant, poppy "Autumn This Year," both of which show that
Forbert can still write a fine song when the gears mesh properly. The album also benefits from
Jason Lehning and
Marc Muller's production, which is strong and effective without weighing down the melodies, while offering space for guest spots from
Edie Brickell and
Bruce Springsteen sideman
Garry Tallent. Featuring a solid studio band and
Forbert in solid (if maturing) voice,
Just Like There's Nothin' to It ought to appeal to his core of fans, even if it isn't likely to expand their number.
–
Mark Deming, Rovi