Self-described pool hustler and troublemaker pianist Martin Lesch first caught our attention with his OurStage track “End of the World.” Its Tom Waits-style, punchy percussion and jarring arrangements grab listeners by the second beat of the song and don’t let go. It’s easy to put this song on repeat; it’s harder to take it off.
Lesch’s music is heavily singer-songwriter-oriented, but by adding his own unique touch he turns a “piano and pianist” tune into so much more. Check out the track “Live With Yourself.” If everything but the piano and vocals were removed, it would still be a great solo piece. Instead, crisp and almost mechanical pop drums enhance the track as it plunges into the piano pop ocean at the chorus, with just enough (but not too much) vocal reverb. Well played, especially for a troublemaker.
This perfect blend of radio-friendly, contemporary music with fun touches (like the “train ride” rhythm of “Old Coal Bridge“) make for a music library that can be enjoyed by all.
Hear it for yourself in our Martin Lesch playlist, and don’t forget to stop by his fanclub page and tell him what you think.
There are two ways to deal with a Magic Man. If you’re Heart, you run away with him beg your mama to “try to understand.” If you’re Amy Crawford & The Electric, you temper your emotions with a healthy dose of skepticism.
The songwriter lays down the law with a spry piano melody and fool-me-not lyrics on her song, “Magic Man”: “Don’t tell me you’ll do the best you can / You’re wasting your time unless you’re a magic man.” It’s infectious and effervescent piano pop with vintage textures à la The Beach Boys, only fronted by a clever girl with a lot more serotonin in her system. On her self-titled debut, Crawford and her band—The Electric—dole out a collection of upbeat gems that fall somewhere between Mates of State after a nap and Feist after a couple of sodas. Crawford’s comely vocals and nimbleness on the ivories make for some bewitching listening. In other words, it’s magic.
Joanna Erdos and The Midnight Show trekked across the bridges from Brooklyn to Manhattan to play a great set at CMJ. Here’s a shot of her and the band killing it at the OurStage Artist Showcase. For more CMJ coverage click right here.
