Search - Jeff Hanson :: Son

I would pay full price

09/12/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I beg to differ, I would pay full price for this album. I think that Jeff is often unfairly compared to Elliott Smith because most reviewers, often for lack of any real musical insight or knack beyond the previous ten years of recorded sound, fail to realise that their influences may have been similar. To suppose that the only influence in the past 5 years of Jeff's musical life has been Elliott Smith is a little absurd. Instead, I would argue that they have similar tastes when it comes to the Beatles, Beach Boys, and Everly Brothers. I would even go so far as to say Simon and Garfunkel, but that's a sacred territory I won't touch upon. The two artists have evolved in a similar manner however on separate branches of the tree, if you will.Jeff's album is astounding in its uniqueness if you listen with a close ear. Surprisingly, his lyrics also struck me as very, very angry, if read differently. His voice can be a bit of a Trojan Horse, in that regard, both disarming and fooling your senses into believing that the song has a more gentile design and flavour. His singing and songwriting have me waiting eagerly for his next album. I only hope the next one begins to separate him from his more simple reviews and comparisons."

The voice will get you, if nothing else.

Agatha Christie | Novi, MI United States | 09/10/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I put in this CD and was astounded at Hanson's voice. If you don't listen closely, it honestly sound like a woman's. Not that his voice is bad in any way; in fact, it's the most outstanding thing about his music. Actually, I just lied. His music is outstanding in its own right. He writes some really lovely, sweet lyrics and simple guitar melodies, but it must be said, it's The Voice that draws you in.
The only problem is that sometimes it's a little bit predictable, like during the first track. The beginning chords almost sound like something you've heard a million times before, except you haven't. But then Hanson sings, and all is forgiven. I love when he does his choruses and sings in the background, layering his voice and getting a really beautiful sound in the process.
Hanson gets compared to Elliott Smith a lot, and rightfully so, I will admit. But I am an avid Smith fan myself and there are some notable differences, mainly, of course, The Voice. I really think this is just a starting point for Hanson, and I can't wait for his next release.
..."