The Waterloo Record & Guelph Mercury

Jon Brooks doesn’t apologize for believing that art, including songwriting, improves the world, even if it’s in some small way by inspiring people. He translates this belief into songs of inspiration on his third release Moth Nor Rust. The 10 tracks on this solo, acoustic offering were recorded live, off-the-floor in the studio. The simplicity of the recording process adds to the eloquence, power and grace of songs that dare to affirm in the face of hopelessness and despair, whether its protesting war, demanding compassion, asserting love or expressing faith. Brooks’ dusty, lived-in voice receives the perfect accompaniment in guitar and harmonica. Moth Nor Rust might not change anything in a macro-political sense. Nevertheless, there is always room in our sad, sad world for songs that remind us of our humanity by afflicting the comfortable and comforting the afflicted. 

-Rob Reid 

The Record 

July, 2009