A side project helmed and titled under Rainer Maria guitarist Kyle Fischer, Open Ground also boasts the collaborative talents of bassist/vocalist Caithlin DeMarrais, drummer Mike Kinsella, cellist Matt Turner, and producer Mark Haines. Though his singing often veers off-key, Fischer's literary visions of romance and self-doubt are well-served by the spirited performances and stellar musicianship. Fischer's acoustic guitar prowess shines brightest on the traditional folk-rock arrangements, especially in the opening cut, "Headphones," which blends legato harmonies on cello between guitar harmonics, arpeggios, and multi-layered vocals. Ranier Maria bandmate/vocalist DeMarrais comes to the rescue early in the game, singing lead on her own composition, "Too Soon to Know," a cut that details the insecurities of a young relationship, and Otis Redding's "Just One More Day," rendered with an Americana face-lift. A far cry from the sonic identity of Rainer Maria, Kyle Fischer's solo debut is a pleasant and somewhat unexpected surprise. ~ Tom Semioli