As BBC host Zane Lowe notes, the music opinion/critic-sphere has spent the last several months showering Tobias Jesso Jr. with unabashed praise. And for good reason, as thus far Jesso has yet to disappoint. It’s great to see someone so talented get their break, but there is a downside – this outpouring of support could shroud an otherwise great album in hype. Sometimes, it’s best to let the music speak for itself:
Some new ones
Houndmouth – Otis
Tallest Man on Earth – Sagres
Iron and Wine – Everyone’s Summer of 95
Leon Bridges – Lisa Sawyer
Alfie Connor- “Stranger”
This 24-year old from Sheffield, England has some “Ben-Howard-esque” guitar licks and an unobtrusive falsetto that soars above the spare instrumentation. I really feel that this song benefits from from not being overly produced. Its the guitar alone that forms that offbeat rhythmic groove. Looking forward to his debut album out in March 2015.
CHAPPO – “Mad Magic”
The Brooklyn native rockers of CHAPPO are back at it. This psychedelic shuffle is rooted in the delightful rhythms of the guitar and everyone else seems to follow his lead. Definitely get some David Bowie vibes from this guy’s voice.
FUTURISTIC FRIDAY
In light of “Throwback Thursday or #tbt” which involves posting something that has nostalgic value, we at RunTheMill wanted to turn this popular convention on its head. This weekly posting will share a song that is either ahead of its time or attempts to push us out of our comfort sound zone.
Redtenbacher’s Funkestra – “Baby Fat”
Just a saxophone-honking, carefree, and funky jam on this Futuristic Friday. Stefan Redtenbacher is the bassist, composer and mastermind behind this band, in which he tries to combine his roots in jazz, soul, and funk. He is an alumni of the Vienna Conservatory and the Berklee College of Music and has worked with the likes of Steve Winwood and Amy Winehouse. If the title “Baby Fat” is any indication, Stefan doesn’t take himself too seriously. We need this this weekend.
Ryley Walker -“Primrose Green”
The lead single off Ryley Walker’s his upcoming sophomore album is beautifully open and lacking in structure. Although Ryley’s guitar skills are the show, I love the jangly piano, the off-beat snare drum hits, and the constant improvisatory background noise. Not enough music formats allows the artist to elongate these type of grooves. It’s only then that the musician can you really start exploring.
Small Houses – Staggers and Rise
Small Houses sophomore album Small Talk; Second City is out now and worth a listen.
Snowed Up on a Tuesday
Time to catch up!
Sufjan Stevens – “No Shade in the Shadow of the Cross”
First off: New Sufjan harkens back to his folky, stripped-down roots. Harmonies galore.
G – “Outer Space”
Chill vibes from this electronica project by G (producer Jimmy Giannopoulos). Throw in a sax and I’m sold.
Will Joseph Cook – “Streets of Paris”
A voice like Brett Dennen and an upbeat chorus like Penguin Prison and Ra Ra Riot.
FUTURISTIC FRIDAY
In light of “Throwback Thursday or #tbt” which involves posting something that has nostalgic value, we at RunTheMill wanted to turn this popular convention on its head. This weekly posting will share a song that is either ahead of its time or attempts to push us out of our comfort sound zone.
Not much time. Off for President’s Day Weekend. But this will be stuck in my head.
Concert Review -AYER
Venue: The Mercury Lounge
Date: 2/11/2015
Rating: 3.0/5
Playing for a small venue takes chutzpah, especially when you are the late night act on a weekday night. After opening act Prinze George, a crowd of 100 slowly disintegrated into a meager 30. But 30 was just enough for AYER to start a dance party. With a minimal 8 song set-list, AYER slowly revved up the intensity level, making sure his last songs got everyone moving. I was most pleasantly surprised Ayer’s airy falsetto. It sounded as strong if not stronger than his regular voice; however, since most of the melodies are in that upper register, his lyrics sometimes get washed out. During the crowd favorite, “Circles,” the band truly came together. The drummer freely handled the entire kit as well the backup singer had her fair share of solos. I’d recommend Ayer for anyone who likes groups such as Chvrches, Saint Motel, or Great Good Fine Ok. In summary, Ayer has potential, but as with any new act, there is always room for improvement.
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