A bright new artist has entered the music scene with thoughtful lyrics and soothing and talented musical accompaniment.
Scottish born and American-bred, Johnathan Rice's debut album release "Trouble is Real" displays actual musical talent with a rather mature sound.
Released on April 26 the album is a collaboration of many talented artists. The album is often a calming lull of instruments that builds full-orchestra style, a pleasantry for the ears.
The album features "Kiss Me Goodbye," a sorrow-filled request of a hard-to-leave lover. Rice's voice croons over his gaggle of instruments that sometimes include trumpets, harps and organs in addition to traditional band staples.
Rice himself plays the electric and acoustic guitar and is, of course, the lead vocalist. His vocal style is similar to John Mayer's, though his musical approach is much more subdued and more poetic than Mayer's pop-friendly songs.
Sometimes a bit corny with dramatics, the album definitely has a congealed feel. The songs do not necessarily vary in style. There may be a lack of upbeat songs, though such an addition would put Rice in danger of becoming more like Mayer.
Quiet and sleepy on occasion, the album plays like a lullaby. "Behind the Front Lines," with Rice's ghostly lyrics and enchanting even feel, and "Mid November," a cautious love song, are examples of this.
The hushed instrumentals complement Rice's gravelly whisper-tone. His style mixes country and folk and is very lush. The rasp of his voice is endearing and reasonable.
Photo: Courtesy of Matthew Messina, from the RMBERS' Instagram page
