Pokey LaFarge

Though he was born in 1983, Pokey LaFarge is an artist whose music harkens back to an era decades before his birth -- vintage country in the manner of the great Jimmie Rodgers, classic acoustic blues and jazz, Western swing, and the songs of the ragtime era. An evocative songwriter and a singer with an easy, ingratiating style, LaFarge has an acoustic band that's the perfect match for his musical blend of past and present, and together they caught the ear of musician and impresario Jack White, who admired their style, talent, and unique take on American music history. 2013's Pokey LaFarge is the singer and songwriter's first album for White's Third Man label (and sixth album overall), capturing his rootsy but artful style with a graceful simplicity that makes the most of his easygoing swing. ~ Mark Deming