This is an open forum for staff members, contributers, and fans alike to submit their reviews on the latest music releases and concerts. In an industry that is drowning with overprocessed, grossly overrated, unoriginal crap these days, this is our chance to allow the real stars to shine, if only on our humble, little stage; and expose you to some of our favorite talents.
Reviews are given 1 - 5 stars.
1. Come On
2. Rocks
3. She’ll Hear You
4. Give It All Away
5. Every Step
6. Christine
7. Wicked Little Town
8. Falling Down
9. Stay
10. Criminal
11. Slow Down
12. Setting Of The Sun
I know what you’re thinking, and you have every reason to do so. Oh, another cute boy, of COURSE Mary likes the CD. While I’ll admit that this kid isn’t bad to look at, it’s really not the main attraction. It’s been a long time since a CD has come out that I can just sit down and love after ONE listen. It really is that beautiful. It’s not just a CD, its basically a musical love song. Love found, love lost, longing for lost love, and every other element of love you can imagine.. It sounds so sappy...and perhaps it is. But I am so loving it.
You may also know that I’m a huge sucker for the piano. And guess what this cd has lots of. PIANO! Yay. There are also keyboards, and strings, and just all kinds of beautiful sounds, accompanied by Ben’s angelic voice. If you listen closely I think you might hear a banjo or two too.
This is one of the first artists that Madonna signed to her Maverick label. That girl ain’t no fool. You can be sure that this album is going to be marketed hardcore based on his looks. He turned down a modeling contract to move on with his music career, and I’m sure it’s something he gets sick of dealing with, but don’t let his pretty boy looks keep you from hearing his stuff, it’d be a tragedy.
He wrote most of the songs himself and has admitted that most of the songs are about one individual. “I write songs about things that have stirred and inspired me, and I record when my feelings are fresh to preserve those emotions.” I don’t thing anyone could listen to this album and not get their emotions stirred. The striking lyrics are provoking while at the same time always reminding you of someone, somewhere, in a past life and other times.
Not all of Ben’s songs are sappy and mellow-don’t let me confuse you. There are some pretty up-tempo tunes too. In fact, the CD opens with the song COME ON which is pop at it’s finest. It’s not only a song, it’s sort of an invite to listen to the rest of the CD. I jumped on the Ben Jelen magic carpet ride as fast as I could.
I can’t really think of anyone to compare Ben to. I really think he is one of a kind. There are moments during songs where I hear hints of many influences from all sorts of genres.
My favorite tracks are Come On, Wicked Little Town, Slow Down and Criminal.
If you want a sample of his music, check out his website. (Click his album cover to get there)
Oh and by the way, before you go asking him if he’s gellin...let me educate you-it’s pronounced Yellin. See, I just saved you a little embarrassment!
| really think we’ll all be hearing a lot more from Ben. You heard it here first.
Reviewed by: Mary Ouellette | July 2005
