Some might know of Paleo’s David Strackany for his 365 day song project in which he wrote a new song every day for an entire year. With this mammoth project under his belt, Fruit of the Spirit is Paleo’s newest release. The nasal harshness of the vocals, odd instrumentation (steel drums anyone?), and weird breaks in songs make for a slightly off-kilter album. However, as it progresses, you may just find something pretty decent, if not great.

The album starts off slow as the listener is eased into Paleo’s style. Mellow track “Lighthouse” opens the album and while it’s hard to get into its groove, its lyrics “Shine your light for me/ Katie come around”, make it a memorable song. Slower ones like “The Rager”, are hard to accept right away, but again, it’s redeemed with sincere lyrics that will ring in your mind. The LP picks up with “Holly Would”, a fun track with a cute play on words that is more accessible than the others. “Buddy Buddy” and “In The Movies” are successful in the same right, and show the singer’s range as he easily masters both the laid back and upbeat songs.

The two tracks listeners are bound to have trouble with are “Poet (Take 1)” and “Poet (Take 2)”. The two are entirely spoken word, and feel torturously long. Sticking one in the middle of the album and the other at the end puts on a bit of a damper and ends the album on an unsatisfying note.

The rest of it though, is skillfully put together. It’s certainly unique, and while it might be a little hard to get into initially, sticking with it pays off as you experience an album that is strangely enchanting. Give Fruit of the Spirit a few listens before you decide if you love or hate Paleo.

Final Words: Be patient. It’ll grow on you.