\When I'm writing and singing, I want be honest. I think it's important to use your real voice and not to posture or wax poetic, even if you're dealing with complex relationships or emotions; just keep it as simple and focused as possible.""
So says singer-songwriter Stephen Kellogg of Stephen Kellogg and the Sixers, and he stays true to form in the self-titled major label debut off of Foundations/Universal records.
Comprised of front man Kellogg and his band of Keith Karlson on bass and keys and Brian Factor on drums, this East Coast outfit prides itself on the grass roots following they obtained from years of relentless touring and promotion. Their hard work paid off with this heartfelt release that deals with love and the agonies of life on the road.
Reminiscent of Counting Crows, with hints of John Mayer and James Taylor, the album pairs upbeat melodies with deeply self aware lyrics that give the listener insight into Kellogg's personality.
In ""You've Changed,"" for example, Kellogg admits, ""I'm only half of what I wish that I was, I wish that I was / You've said it before, that I talk too much, that I say too much.""
Confessions such as these add a layer of sincerity to the album and make it easy to appreciate Kellogg's strong ability to convey depth of feeling with the simplest of phrases. The lyrics are of utmost importance, as the music never overpowers the strong, clear vocals.
In ""Such a Way,"" however, the lyrics are slightly inferior to the beautifully evocative piano music. ""I can't say I'm immune, though I've been trying to show you / That you could have my heart, you could take my heart today,"" he sings.
Though lyrics like these veer toward the juvenile side, Kellogg sings with such earnestness it is impossible not to be captivated and drawn into his songs.
Most of the music is part pop-rock, part bluegrass, with a bit of country tossed in for songs such as ""Blue Jean.""
The band even employs blues in the ode to debauchery in ""Vegas,"" which sets itself apart as the most distinctive song on the album.
The Sixers get a little help from their friends with various guest performers.
Braddigan, from the now defunct band Dispatch, sings background vocals on the song ""My Sweet Charade,"" adding warmth and depth to a wistful song about the inability to commit in relationships. Also lending a hand is fellow singer-songwriter Rich Price in the optimistic ""Start the Day Early,"" which compels the listener to seize the day.
Standouts also include the Counting Crows influenced song titled, of course, ""Maria"" and ""See you Later, See you Soon.""
Overall, old-school fans of the group will be sure to enjoy Stephen Kellogg and the Sixers, as it includes four previously released songs from their independent albums, and they will be pleased with the new direction the Sixers have taken as they delve into the mainstream.
-Abbie Daubenspeck
