We all know that Sufjan Stevens can be kind of, well, weird. But I guess that’s a relatively loose statement. I mean, what do we consider weird? The fact that his music is appealing to the ear, but not in the same way as, say, Kanye West or John Mayer? I guess a more appropriate term would be unique. He’s unique because he creates music outside of the formula. He continually recreates the equation, not only in relation to the music industry but to his own style. You have to respect an artist that takes risks. Especially in an age where the formula is what’s proven to make the money. Sufjan Stevens is part of the revolution.
I first heard about Sufjan Stevens upon the announcement of his 50 states project. For those of you that aren’t familiar, the goal was to write an entire album of region-specific songs for each of the 50 states. It was a grand idea, but with only Michigan and Illinois complete, one can only speculate as to whether or not the project will ever see the end. But regardless of whether or not he makes it to your state, he’s still creating new music for all, as is apparent with his latest release The Age of Adz.
This album is definitely different than his previous releases, but still very Sufjan. You’ll still hear the guitar, horns, strings, synthesizers and random strange noises. But themes are a little more wildly spread out throughout the album to take you through many different moods in a single listening session.
Buy The Age of Adz:
So how about that Peter Gene Hernandez? He is really destroying the charts right now, huh? You have a weird look on your face. Maybe this will help. Peter Gene Hernandez = Bruno Mars. That simple mathematical principle proves that this Hawaiian born soulful cat is here to stay. Bruno Mars combines old school soul swagger with contemporary pop appeal. It has been scientifically proven that his voice is causing global warming; on account of it being so hot. Scientifically = some random lady I sat behind on the train who was gushing to her crew about Mars’ mad musical skills.
Peter Gene Hernandez = Bruno Mars
We here at FreshScouts have had Bruno Mars in our ears ever since we featured him in our Weekly Jukebox back in January. This cat is smashing up the charts right now with the ultimate love song, “Just the Way You Are”. But let’s not forget about his smooth collabo with Travie McCoy on “Billionaire” and his memorable hook on B.o.B.’s “Nothin’ on You”. But wait, there’s more! Mars also co-wrote Flo Rida’s “Right Round” and K’naan’s “Wavin’ Flag”. Yeah, let’s just say that Bruno Mars knows what he is doing and he is ready to destroy with his first full album that is scheduled to drop in October.
While we wait for the October release, we offer up a sweet little gem in the form of an EP. On It’s Better If You Don’t Understand (released in May 2010), Mars delivers 4 hot tracks that showcase what he can do. Mars has the formula down and knows exactly how to get his music to the masses. That formula can do a lot of damage if put in the wrong hands. Thankfully, he uses his power for good and we are the victors. If Mars can keep himself out of trouble, he will no doubt become one of the biggest artists of 2011.
KC’s Personal Picks: “Count on Me” and “The Other Side” (featuring Cee Lo Green & B.o.B.)
Check out his live acoustic version of “Count on Me”
Buy It’s Better If You Don’t Understand
Oh girl. Preach on Leela James. Preach on. Now, this is some soulful R&B right here. Soulful R&B not your thing? I don’t want to say you don’t have a soul…but dude, you ain’t got no soul. One listen to Ms. James will unlock the groove that you were born with. Invite your groove to come on out and let it stroll around for a hot minute.
Ms. James
Leela James’ deep, gritty tone sounds a lot like Tina Turner and Aretha Franklin. This young woman’s voice reflects a style that is twice her age. But, her music doesn’t sound old. James’ music is relevant, refreshing and meaningful. The tracks on the recently released album, My Soul, are packed full of soul. You might be surprised at the hard driving beats that accompany her stellar vocals. Each track takes you to magical locations and then kindly introduces you to the next trip. I loved James’ 2005 release, A Change is Gonna Come, but I am IN love with My Soul. Don’t get caught sleeping on the music of Leela James. Step on up a get ready to be a part of something special through her amazing music.
KC’s Personal Picks: “Tell Me You Love Me”, “So Cold”, and “Mr. Incredible – Ms. Unforgettable”
Watch the video for “Tell Me You Love Me”
Buy the album
I recently stumbled across Matthew Perryman Jones on my musical travels. To be honest, I’m not sure how I made it there, but I’m glad I did. It was like finding a $5 bill in your coat pocket a year later or realizing you got 11 chicken nuggets instead of 10 at your favorite fast food joint (in my case Wendys.) It was an unexpected treat.
His voice is easy on the ears and his songs have a quality similar to that of Rufus Wainwright. And I loves me some Rufus. If you’re looking for a singer-songwritery, adult alternative man of the hour, look no further than Matthew Perryman Jones. It probably helps that he lives in one of the musical capitals of probably the world: Nashville, TN. I mean, it’s the home of country music, not to mention the likes of some of our favorite artists including Andrew Ripp, Dave Barnes and Ben Rector (just to name a few.)
But don’t take my word for it. Check out this super official video for “Save You” from Swallow the Sea. It’s like, the real deal.
Buy Swallow the Sea:
When I heard Ari Hest was part of a side project called The Open Sea, I didn’t have to wonder if I would like it. I just knew I would. Honestly, if Ari left me a voice mail message I would probably say the message is the single of the week. Yeah, we like Ari. Now, add the heavenly Rosi Golan into the mix and this thing just got real…for real.
Rosi Golan and Ari Hest
As individuals, Ari and Rosi have developed solid singer-songwriter careers that highlight their incredible voices. It is always wonderful to see when two talented individuals come together to make something new. We, the listeners, reap the benefits. Ari and Rosi’s voices fit together perfectly like two pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. The finished product is absolutely beautiful and a wonderful showcase of what the human voice is capable of.
As The Open Sea, Rosi and Ari have created something special in their EP, Little Apple. The 5 tracks that they have chosen float effortlessly through the atmosphere. Their superb vocals and simple arrangements show off what they are both so darn good at. Little Apple is exhibit A for why more artists need to seriously look at collaborating. Do everything in your power to spread the word about this project. Support great artists and great music.
KC’s Personal Picks: “All in a Day” and “Starlight”
Check out their live performance of “All in a Day”
Buy the album
