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09.08.03
Charlotte Martin is a rising star who shines brilliantly on her second album, In Parentheses. Although often compared strongly to Tori Amos, Martin has set her own style on this collection of four songs that combine candid lyrics with layers of piano notes and the percussion to match. "Monsters" has a mystical, industrial sound; in it Martin sings radiantly about looking inside herself only to find something inside that she dislikes, but can't live without (at least that's how I interpret it). "In Parentheses" is played simply, with some spoken words and deranged piano chords – yet the song powerfully flows with Martin's vocals, sometimes belted out at a high pitch. Background vocals complete with drums add to the song's dominance as she wails, "And I've have bullshit from a man/But found exactly who I am/I'll never be the vision of a girl who can write poetry/I'll never be the little black dress we've seen on nightly." The self-proclaimed "goth" girl, Martin proves that she's ready to take on stardom –- that's the only direction she can take now...up.
Favorite Tracks: Monster, In Parentheses
Rating: 5 stars
09.02.03
At first listen, I thought this CD was another guy strummin' a guitar, belting out the retro blues. But once I listened further, again, more intently, I discovered the magic in Eric Hutchinson. Sure, I'd like to hear more drums, a little bass, or electric guitar – I like the studio stuff before I can get into the acoustics. But for his first album, That Could Have Gone Better is a respectable debut, and it's easy to see why it stands out in the acoustic community – because he's not just another guy with a guitar. Hutchinson's voice is reminiscent of Gavin DeGraw, the lyrics are heartfelt and fun, plus the music has a touch Ari Hest's soul. Not a bad mix. An earthy combination of acoustics, simple back-up singing and a rhythmic claps, Hutchinson displays his talent and his potential. He certainly shines in "Subtitles," when he cleverly sings "Don't tell me to yell when you want me to whisper/Don't spin the bottle if you don't want to kiss her/Cuz the closer we get well the further I feel/Well the less that we fake the more that seems real." Again, the album as a whole could have gone better, but I haven't lost hope in young Hutchinson because I think he's got the ability to do more.
Favorite Tracks: Jettison, Subtitles
Rating: 3.5 stars
08.27.03
In three short songs, Michael Celedon's EP resonates a brilliant mix of jam band riffs with alternative electric guitar interludes. In short, Celedon captures audiences with a smooth voice reminiscent of John Mayer, and a well-mixed acoustic rock sound that is applicable to the masses. "Catch Your Breath" is an upbeat electrically-charged tune featuring simple lyrics with a hard edge. There's an aura of honesty in Celedon's words, which echo in the heartfelt song about unrequited love, "Someday". In it he sings "I can feel your heart/And it beats inside my mind/I miss you tonight." This is an artist that you hear a little of and yearn to hear more of. A gleaming debut, I am fervent to see what Celedon develops next.
Favorite Tracks: Someday, Follow Me
Rating: 4.5 stars
08.27.03
Justin Branam's debut album is chock full of acoustic riffs that are energizing and uplifting. His lyrics are certainly the highlight of the album because they radiate themes of hope and motivation, although they are simple in nature. "Where You Are" is by far the best song on the album, and features a catchy rhythm with more stirring lyrics. Some background drums add to the rockability of the album. This album didn't grab hold of me tightly and standout from a lot of the other male acoustic rock singers out there, but Branam displays a viable extent of potential that is rare amongst the masses of young guys with guitars in hand. I'd like to see how he matures in the music world, and what he features on his next album.
Favorite Track: Where You Are
Rating: 3 stars
08.25.03
They're college jam band music now, but are hopeful that their small taste of local success will spread. West James, the band that hails from Franklin and Marshall College, put out Lonely Street, their latest EP this year. For someone who only has two jam bands in her repertoire (Dave Matthews and Pete Schmidt Band, of course) I have to say that although I didn't fall head over heels for the album, the band shows a lot of potential. Their song, "Rain Check" sounds a lot like "Two Step" by Matthews, and features clever lyrics - they definitely have knack for witty lyrics, as displayed throughout the album. "Lonely Street" is an inspiring jam-based duet featuring Kelly Kennedy, who sounds very much like Michelle Branch. Overall, its easy to see why they have a huge college fan base and I'm eager to hear their upcoming release.
Favorite Track: Lonely Street
Rating: 3.5 stars
08.25.03
Forecast: smooth acoustic riffs combined with a melancholy feel. That's what you're bound to find when you listen to Chris Bryan's CD. If you're a fan of acoustic, this album is for you. You won't find tons of studio mastered beats, just Bryan and his 6-string...and it's a beautiful thing. He doesn't whine about romance; he delves into the emotions of it and does so while keeping the mood light. "I Don't Want to be Right" is perhaps the most charming song on the album...a soft tender tune about the simplicity of being with another person that you adore. Bryan sings, "I fall a little more in love with you everyday of my life/If it's wrong for me to wanna be with you, I don't want to be right." Bryan exuberates soul throughout the album, and especially in "Take a Good", a live track about jumbling words. The comical improv track is sure to please those who love acoustic guitar stage banter. Although I'm not a fan of acoustic stuff until after I hear the studio version, I can fully appreciate Bryan's efforts to make this clean, professional recording. He's got a lot of potential, and this album is a great start.
Favorite Tracks: Day to Day, I Don't Want to be Right
Rating: 4 stars
08.20.03
Simply stated, this album shines. Matt Nathanson put out this EP, his final indie release, before being signed by Universal Records. And just in time, I think. Although I don't doubt his "signed" work will rock, this album is meaningful not only in its musical containings, but because it is the culmination of about 10 years of hard independent work by Nathanson. I have nothing but appreciation for Nathanson and this album, which features lyrics so poetically fluent, so complicated, honest and personal — all sung with a tone that's stern yet moving. As the riffs intensify in the songs, so did the upwelling in me to feel everything he was singing about. A mix of clashing electric and acoustic guitars with upbeat rock tempos, songs like "Pretty the World" and "Bent" excel in their ability to convey sharp emotions while keeping the listener grooving through it all. Guest singer Emm Gryner radiates as brightly as Nathanson does in their popular duet, "Bent". Still, Nathanson's serious side breaks through in "Weight of it All", a slower acoustic song much like his previous work. This album is rock and roll at its best.
Favorite Tracks: Pretty the World, Bent
Rating: 5 stars
08.20.03
Ben Folds proves that he can stand the test of time apart from the "Five" with his first private release – the first of 3 to be released this year. Here we find a pleasant combination of Folds' varied musical talents: the ability to add flavor to cover a song while still keeping the integrity of it (The Cure's "In Between Days"); the addition of one new song; and the guts to bring back and remix older tunes from his days with the punk trio, Ben Folds Five. Even though the majority of the album seems to take on what seems to be Fold's growing trend for simple melancholy songs, ("Wandering" and "Give Judy My Notice"), you can always count on him to blend flowing emotion with a crude lyric such as, "I won't be your bitch anymore." Folds picks up the pace with "Dog", a whimsical tune featuring cascading piano layers about, well, a dog — though it's reminiscent in sound of his "Rockin' the Suburbs" release, "Fired". I was pleased to see "Protection" resurrected from the BFF days as well. This album is a great cross-section of Fold's knack for quirk and his aptitude for classic Folds-style piano ballads.
Favorite Tracks: Wandering, In Between Days
Rating: 5 stars
08.19.03
For a mesmerizing rock experience, pick up Alex Woodard's album, Saturn Returns. Chock full of electric guitar riffs and his charming yet gruff voice, Woodard flexes his potential stardom muscle with a combination of tunes that will keep you wondering about life and love. It's kind of impressive how he can be belting out hard rock in one track, and back to a romantic piano song in the next. "Every Road You Go", is the kind of song with the honest message that love can exist without the confines of romantic boundaries – I felt so "safe" simply by listening to Woodard belt out this supportive ballad. "December 14" is another great tune with piano and cello arrangements that seem to echo in my heart long after the tune is over. Woodard as a whole, to me, is very reminiscent of The Calling. I can't wait to hear his upcoming work, featuring Pete Droge. For now, this album reminds me that Woodard still has a ways to go in the music world, and I can't wait to watch him make his journey.
Favorite Tracks: Every Road You Go, Photograph
Rating: 4stars
08.12.03
Enchantment is the word when it comes to Kristin Cifelli. Her 1999 release, Silver Bowl, has captured my attention since I received it. Her voice is mesmerizing... and absolute prize of harmonious resonance. Her hit song, "Martyr", is compelling and honest song which highlights the melodic tones and variations in her voice. "All the Way Down" is a soulful, gripping tune in which her voice and her bassist soar. If you like Sarah McLachlan, you're bound to be moved by the intensity of her lyrics and sound. The album features drummer John Sands (Aimee Mann), and bassist Sean Hurly (Vertical Horizon). She's a New Jersey native, too, which makes her even more likeable. We're eagerly awaiting her newest release, due out this year.
Favorite Tracks: All the Way Down, Savior
Rating: 5 stars
08.12.03
Thank you, James Taylor. Thank you, Carly Simon. That's all I keep thinking every time I listen to their son's new album, Famous Among the Barns. The Ben Taylor Band has emerged lucratively with a compilation of mellow rock and folk songs. Yes, the voices are very similar, but Ben's sophisticated musical manner sets him apart. (Though his voice is analogous to the likes of Jimmy Buffett and John Mayer). But it's really the modern twist of folk with rockability that makes the album a lively gem. Notably, the album features a chill rendition of the 60s classic, "Time of the Season." Featuring an energizing blend of electric, acoustic and bass guitars, the Ben Taylor Band has proved that they can thrive apart from daddy's legend in the music world. I think this album will bring a whole new awareness of 70s rock to Gen X'ers, and for that, we should be very thankful.
Favorite Tracks: Time of the Season, Island
Rating: 4 stars
08.05.03
Combining soothing melodies with his silky yet variable-toned voice, Wes Cunningham hits the mark with his newest album, Pollyanna. This CD is unlike anything I've heard because of his ability to blend in layers of electronica beats throughout songs such as "No Justice" and "Good Good Feeling". Those old keyboard tempos you loved during the Run DMC break dancing days are back in this alternative rock album, mixed with great electric guitar interludes. Cunningham has a great ability to convey his opinions into thought-based tunes. In "I Fall for Her (Over and Over)", Wes combines a gentle beat into a romantic ballad about being in love with his wife. Yes, girls, he's a married dreamboat. Cunningham is commonly compared to the old group Jellyfish, but I'm feeling a little Rhett Miller in this album. Still, the musical nuances and lyrics are clearly all Wes.
Favorite Tracks: No Justice, I Fall for Her (Over and Over)
Rating: 4 stars
08.01.03
There's something about Cara Aley that inspires me. Maybe it's her voice – gentle yet edgy; or her music – complex string rhythms that entice the soul; or her lyrics – powerful and straightforward. Whatever it is, she sent me her newest album, Bend (available in August 2003), and I was thoroughly impressed to find a harmonious merge of acoustics with a wordly touch. There's no detailed storytelling here, only her feelings spilled out overflowingly into music that accompanies the emotions described in her lyrics. Fluidly written, these lyrics paint emotional masterpieces about life and love, simple yet complex. My favorite track, "Figure It Out" gives an introspective view into Cara's outlook on life, and is based on a popular Shakespearian quote. In "Better Things", Cara sings about the role of positivity and love in life. "And do any of us know what the forward brings/Need to keep our hopes in line for better things/Take the time now to show me where my heart is going/Care enough to know that all I need is knowing/That you're going to be there when I return."
You'll get more than perfect romance songs with this girl – she can sing about the destruction of love ("Luke") as eloquently as the emergence of it ("Take Me Away"). I feel like I've met someone that I aspire to be when I hear this album-- for Cara has opened up her soul for all to hear.
Favorite Tracks: Figure It Out, Luke
Rating: 5 stars
08.01.03
This is kind of an odd review for me, because I'd heard Cary Pierce's single, "Home", and fell in love with it. Instead of buying that album, I wanted to hear a culmination of the artist's work, so I bought his newest release, Live at Schubas. Definitely a great investment if you have an appreciation for live recordings. The sound quality is superb, and Pierce shimmers during a show that features electrifying acoustic riffs and sentimentally-charged vocals. His stage banter is humorous, which gives you insight into who he is and where his music comes from. The CD features Jackopierce (his former band) favorites such as "Jacob and Trial". He delves into solo material from his solo releases as well, such as "Home" and "Time to Time". Overall, Pierce delivers a compelling album that is worth picking up.
Favorite Tracks: Home, Speed
Rating: 4 stars
08.01.03
I heard about this CD on the net and requested a copy. When I heard it was jazz music, I was a little taken back because the only thing jazz I know is Harry Connick, Jr. But I have to say, these guys make jazz applicable to Generation X. Their CD is chock full of acoustic jazz - a fresh sound rarely heard in today's pop-only music culture. Eric Walters belts out vocals, and bassist Brian Carroll carries the album through with a unique blend of varied tones. "Old Kings Highway" is the best song if you ask me – an ongoing smooth acoustic instrumental riff complete with funk undertones. For someone who doesn't dig jazz, I still enjoyed the album for it's one-of-a-kind southern jazz rockability.
Favorite Tracks: Old Kings Highway, For A While
Rating: 3 stars
08.01.03
The Miami Herald was spot-on when they dubbed Dean Fields as the "voice of two angels". The Boston resident released his album, Imitations in 2002, and it's been gaining popularity ever since. I recently got a hold of the CD to give it a listen and was impressed, to say the least. He's similar in sound to the likes of Ryan Adams, but still stands boldly apart from any other artist I've heard. Fields blends sentiment with enchantment into a collection of 9 songs that inspire the mind and intrigue the heart. In "Each Every One", my favorite track, Fields combines heartfelt, descriptive lyrics with a soothing sound in a song that explores the phases in relationships: "I've held 'I love yous' on the tip of my tongue/I swallowed and choked down each, every one." The music helps you sense the mood, but it's his vocals that allow you to actually feel his emotions. In "Imitations," he sings about a relationship ending, but does so with great fervor and wisdom. Throughout the album, Fields proves that he's much more than another singer/songwriter wailing out emotions over a guitar. He's got all the makings of a musician who will be around for years to come. This is one CD that will stay in my stereo.
Favorite Tracks: Each Every One, Charleston
Rating: 5 stars
07.25.03
This guy has a voice all his own and a sound that offers bluesy beats and alternative jams. His song "Here Nor There" was featured on the Felicity: Senior Year soundtrack. Since picking up this CD, I've been hooked. The thing about Stochansky I like the most is the beat of his enchanting songs...it's comfortably rhythmic, which makes it a fun selection. Great also for background music while entertaining friends, etc.
Favorite Tracks: Here Nor There, 22 Steps.
Rating: 4 stars
07.25.03
Warning: This is a biased review because I love this man! Seriously, this is his best album yet. "It's a rock record," says Sheik of this, his fourth album. It certainly is. Don't let the poppy tune of "On A High" lead you to think that the album is all radio-type music. He combines catchy melodies with edgy electric and acoustic guitar sounds that Sheik fans have come to adore. I must plug Gerry Leonard here, too, because his Pink Floyd-ish background sounds give the songs a unique sound. The theme around many of the songs is relationships, but Sheik still manages to squeeze in some daydreaming-type tunes, such as Such Reveries. But when it comes to thought-provoking lyrics, they can be found in any of the songs. I also dig how he talks candidly about his feelings in songs like "On Her Mind" and "Genius".
Favorite Tracks: Half-Life, Good Morning!
Rating: 5 stars
07.25.03
Even though this band recently signed with Universal Records, their self-titled album sounds like the makings of a well-established band. If you like emotionally-charged lyrics with a semi-hard upbeat alternative rock sound, this CD is a wise investment. Killing Me is a slow song infused with lyrics that anyone in a heart wrenching relationship can relate to. And Best Thing musically tells the tale of two people meant to be together despite difficult circumstances. Overall, it's a good CD to rock out to.
Favorite Tracks: Accident of Youth, Killing Me
Rating: 5 stars
07.25.03
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I fell in love with her song Imagination after hearing it on Internet radio, so I surfed over to Ebay to buy the CD. Of course I didn't want to pay much because I wasn't sure if the rest of the album would be a wash-out. It was anything but. I instantly fell in love with her folk rock tracks that combine imagery into emotional and whimsical lyrics. This Mid-West native featured John Mayer and Emmylou Harris on her album. Into the Light was recently featured on Dawson's Creek, and Mayer fans have fallen in love with her happy-go-lucky-in-love tune, Bliss. Trust me - I never would have thought I'd like anything with the word "folk" on it, but this woman brings a new dimension of rock into it. Taking a road trip? This is a great driving CD.
Favorite Tracks: Bliss, Some Things Get Lost
Rating: 5 stars
07.18.03
It's difficult to say if this is her best album so far (her last two are great), but I can say with certainty that this Canadian native's third album tops my list. Kreviazuk is currently blasting this CD into the United States market, and I think it will take off well. She's got the quintessential Lilith Fair female vocals that make you melt, and she plays the piano so well you can feel her emotions blaring out of the stereo when you play the CD. Her songs are positive and reflect her love of introspection. She doesn't just sign about discovering herself; she finds her self as she sings! In her smash hit "What If It All Means Something", Kreviazuk sings about helping a friend in need, reminding her pal that a bigger picture exists during times of affliction. I honestly shed tears when I heard her song Flying Home, which was written in memory of a child in her family who died young. But things pick up in the album when she busts out positive energy in the song Weight of the World. Kreviazuk is well known for her rendition of In My Life, featured on the NBC show Providence; and her song Home, featured on the first Dawson's Creek album. This album is a must-have.
Favorite Tracks: Time, Turn the Page
Rating: 5 stars
07.18.03
In his third album, Hest sings most brilliantly featuring songs about relationships and loss. In my book, he's the authority on acoustic guitar rock and he proves it with songs such as "Holding On" and the bluesy "This Fight". Hest shines with his tune "I Didn't Want to Say Goodbye", belting out emotion about the September 11th tragedy. In "Strangers Again", Hest sings candidly about wanting to start over in a relationship. Monsters is a definitive tune about self-created drama. But what really makes Hest stand out is his voice – a throaty, melodic enchantment that entices his growing audiences. The CD is a must-have in my book, perfect for capturing any mood.
Favorite Tracks: Monsters, This Fight
Rating: 5 stars
07.18.03
The only way I can accurately describe this album is Santana and Jason Mraz doing their take on Michael Jackson. The music is so creatively contrasted from anything you'll hear on the radio. Songs like "This Love" and "Tangled" incorporate a throbbing reggae beat into smooth alternative rock jams. In She Will Be Loved, lead singer and guitarist Adam Levine belts out funk tones that bring the emotion of the lyrics to life. No doubt that his voice gives the band the edge they need to continue touring with well-known bands such as Goo Goo Dolls, Sugar Ray and John Mayer.
Favorite Tracks: Harder to Breathe, She Will Be Loved
Rating: 4 stars
07.18.03
"The Boy is Gone", alright. He's now a growing frenzy across the globe. Why? Because Mraz's music combines his country-boy roots with alternative rhymes that make this album totally unique, and indefinable by the usual music genres. This guy gives new life to the acoustic guitar, and his voice is one-of-a-kind, energized by his ability to hit high notes and bang out throaty tones. His first release "The Remedy (I Won't Worry)" boasts uplifting lyrics with a grooving rhythmic base beat that is sure to appeal to the masses. But it isn't until you listen to the rest of Mraz's songs (none are alike) that you really see what this California guy is all about...fun jams!
Favorite Tracks: You and I Both, I'll Do Anything
Rating: 5 stars
07.18.03
This album is already a classic in my book. You've heard Mayer on the radio already – his soft, emotional voice blended with fluidly descriptive lyrics. Great Indoors offers a creative look at staying home; while "No Such Thing" bring excitement into the concept of growing up and getting out into the world. In "Comfortable", Mayer explores the feelings of familiarity in relationships, while he toys with the concept of fate in "Love Song for No One". A true 20-something soundtrack, Mayer brings quarterlife crisis feelings to life, and does so with a sound that anyone can groove to.
Favorite Tracks: Why Georgia, My Stupid Mouth
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Kristen Fischer
DiscoveringArtists.com
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