To those who know the work of Jason Kesselring (mostly via his efforts as leader of the space rock group Skye Klad and his newest band, Blitzen), the music of The Satyrswitch may come as something of a shock. However, anyone who has ever taken a plunge into a clear northern lake on a hot summer's day knows that after the initial icy shock of the water comes a singular and beautiful refreshing feeling unlike no other. Kesselring's Satyrswitch project offers this kind of striking contrast in its crystalline acoustics, engaging original compositions and unique interpretations of traditional folk songs that pay strong homage to their roots while giving them a new twist. Shedding the layers of distortion and epic, ear-splitting space voyages he has been known to use in the past has not only brought into light Kesselring's versatility and variable virtuosity, it also provides the bracing refreshment that only a drastic change can bring. Kesselring is joined by a few guests on some tracks (notably his wife Christine and fellow Skye Klad/Salamander members Dave Onnen and Erik Wivinus), but on most of the album we find him on his own. Many modes and styles are explored (including intriguing takes on such tried-and-true trad numbers as "Tom Of Bedlam" and "Nottamun Town," Barrettesque, chord-organ laden psych-folk originals and an impressive and nimble guitar raga that will certainly give his contemporaries in the new acoustic underground a run for their money), but throughout there is a consistent and singular cohesive musical strain to bind together these seemingly disparate elements. Though this is a quieter musical form, it maintains all the power of his earlier efforts while pushing his vision forward to new vistas. Kesselring's eardrums doubtless thank him for the cool respite, and doubtless will the eardrums of those lucky enough to find this release in their hands.