by Stewart Mason
Folkie singer/songwriter Brett Dennen's self-titled debut has the easygoing lope and world music influences of Jack Johnson or Dave Matthews, and his voice is oddly similar to that of Tracy Chapman, with the same slightly nasal quality and occasionally bluesy inflections. Though Brett Dennen is an agreeable listen, perfect for any anti-chain coffeehouse or independent bookstore, its lack of genuinely catchy tunes or thought-provoking lyrics means it tends to slip quickly from memory. The main exception is the thoughtful ballad "All We Have," which features Dennen's most affecting vocal. Too much of the rest is simply pleasant.