Although I’m not the biggest supporter of the manifesting movement (to put it simply: making your dreams a reality with the power of your thoughts), I share Raymond Little’s premise that his name will grow far beyond its modest ring, and that the title of his latest album proves prophetic. Listening to the nine songs that make up Big Hits certainly comes across as a step in that direction. If we had to single out one track, it would probably be Punchline (reminiscent of EELS), but given the total playing time of only 22 minutes, you might as well catch the rest.

Fortunately, in terms of sound and design it’s still just as intimate and offbeat as ever. As we’ve come to expect from the Marquette, Michigan-based cabin-rock troubadour, he fires off sharp observations with scrappy urgency, wry humor with a knack for saying more with less, and hooks with a feel both homespun and electrified. Ragged vocals, a warm acoustic guitar, and a meandering organ make it like a fast drive down a dusty back road in the approaching summer. Manifest that; it’s unpredictable, charming, spirited, and fun from start to finish.

Big Hits is out now digitally via Lost Dog Records. Also featuring Charlie Miljard (organ), Kora Melia (violin), Davey Jones (Banjo), Marcella Krupski (backing vocals), and Ashlyn Roskowski (backing vocals) on select tracks.

Add to wantlist: Bandcamp