There’s no doubt ‘It’s The Ones Who’ve Cracked That The Light Shines Through’ will end up in Best Of 2003 lists everywhere come the end of the year. Because it really is a genuinely superb record – sharp, dry and wry, it should make Lewis (who’s also a comic book writer) famous. And this despite its simple approach to musicianship - mostly it’s just Jeffrey and his guitar. Immediately striking is the wit embedded in the opening number, ‘Back When I Was 4’, you’ll laugh out loud or die trying not to, and from there on in will be bowled over by some acute observations and unusual warmth. He weaves his tales of growing up particularly well, and such yarns can’t help but connect. There are elements of Loudon Wainwright III, Tenacious D and Bright Eyes here, though it’s Lewis’ individualism that’s really the key. Inspired stuff.
4/5
Barfly