Zephaniah Ohora checks every meaningful box in fashioning a country set teeming with classic feel and retro atmosphere.  Neither hailing from nor residing in typical country turf, the New England-bred, NYC-based singer/guitarist conveys his affinity for old-school country style and sentiment pairing up plain-spoken lyrics and guile-less vocals, serving up convincing workingman’s soul.  Sporting a strutting, Waylon-esque tempo, “Black & Blue” should garner attention as should a classic piece of barstool reflection, “Living Too Long”.  Ballads “It’s Not So Easy Today” and “Emily” stand out as well.  Instrumental backup is superb throughout, highlighted by the work of pedal steel player Jon Graboff.  A “best of the year” candidate.