Brian Huber
“Imagination of Ourselves”
Washington DC musician Brian Huber kind of reminds me of Jonathan Coulton, in that he’s got a catchy guitar and synth novelty song “Snuggies” and has a talent for writing melodic DIY bedroom pop. “Reverie” is an easy going pop jam that brings to mind Doug Powell and They Might Be Giants. Many songs are slice of life stories (“Life Is A Song” and “My Cure”) that will bring a smile and warmth to your heart. Occasionally the tongue in cheek humor of “Shipwrecked (Part 1 & 2)” tends to drags on too long, but on “Snuggies” it’s just right. Likewise Brian vocals seem out of place on standard rock compositions like “Don’t Go Down to The River” but excels at heart felt mid tempo pop like on “Time Will Only Know.” A very easy-on-the-ears album for casual Fridays.
Jukebox The Ghost “Everything Under The Sun”
Jukebox The Ghost is a band that is heavy on sunshine and nostalgic influences. Produced by Peter Katis (Interpol, The National) the trio is made up of guitarist/vocalist Tommy Siegel, pianist/vocalist Ben Thornewill and drummer Jesse Kristin. The group has a solid upbeat piano sound that makes an impression on the opener, “Schizophrenia,” with quick beats, playful synths and the contrasting lyrics “No I can’t, Yes I Can…” The album is tons of fun with expertly executed hooks in the bouncy “Half Crazy” and quirky lyrics of “Empire,” which sounds like a brilliant combination of Billy Joel and Field Music. Read more on the Rock and Roll Report