Originality is just one side of Jared Micah’s quest to define art with music. In his latest self-titled album, Micah explores the depths of human perception, awaiting some sort of answer to his questioning of life, putting forth a good, solid album.
The album starts with a monotonous tone and then it builds upwards, leaving the listener inspired, waiting for more. Not only do the lyrics show the world needs to rethink its current value system, the songs show that people should learn to reconnect with their inner being. Micah shows impressive musicianship throughout every song, playing a variety of instruments, from the banjo and piano to a kazoo. The overall production quality is impressive for this 10-song album, complementing his unique sound. His nontraditional use of sound works well within his framework of experimentation, breaking the line between melody and reckless abandonment. Micah definitely breaks the rules of typical songwriting, running away with certain pattern structures, challenging the listener to come forth and really feel this new perception of music.
The music seems to flow like a soundtrack to some quirky independent film. Micah’s lyrical tone is demanding, yet sometimes may be too philosophical and theoretical for the average listener.
At times, the music sounds almost too ethereal, though the texture and layering of the melodies are quite pleasing to the average ear. The eclectic mix of sound brings together many forms of music from old blues and tribal rhythms, to Middle Eastern influences. There is no actual way to place this genre of music, yet Micah’s voice draws comparisons to the likes of Damien Rice. However, Micah’s voice shows a vulnerable side, showing the frustration of his lyrics, letting go of expectation and moving onward with experimentation. The ambiance of the whole album is much like a big jigsaw puzzle, letting the listener gather bits and pieces, but never actually answering any questions. Unfortunately, this sometimes becomes annoying and the music seems too distant and unreachable?almost too messy. The music attempts to go where the lyrics cannot, but the monotony can seem overly dramatic, and the emphasis on some of the curious melodies can be distracting.
This album is not one to exactly sing along to because many of the songs seem to blend together, which is sometimes very satisfying, yet, at other times, it leaves you wanting to hear something more substantial.
