If pairing R.L.J.'s occasionally overt melodicism and open chords in tandem with percussionist Cyro Baptista - who provides some New Agey wind chimes and neo-tropical effects - yields something akin to smooth, the guitarist opens creative floodgates with introspective solo guitarfests ("West Helena Blues") that capture the probing spirit of his debut. Ultimately, it's Johnson's unique, orchestral approach to guitar that make him and his music special.