Son

Also known as M.I.J., this midwesterner sings mellow acoustic pop songs in an extremely high register, so high that it might as well as be female vocals. This unique skill probably gains him the most attention, but I would criticize the music as indie’s contribution to easy listening (this coming from someone who loves all things sadcore but hates Elliott Smith, as well as most music that could fall under the label of singer-songwriter). Like so many singer-songwriters, there’s nothing particularly outstanding about it, but there’s nothing particularly annoying or offensive either. In addition, the production is a little too pop for my taste. Nevertheless, his effeminate voice is sweet and comforting, and many will enjoy this album for being gentle, lazy, pretty. Think of Elliott Smith after a good therapy session.
11, 5, 10, 1

1. easy listening song with acoustic and voice. npr friendly
2. midtempo pop song driven by acoustic + drums, heavily produced.
3. quiet and gentle acoustic + vox, with very slight bluesy riff. decent.
4. more upbeat, lots of strummed acoustic guitars.
5. acoustic serenade with nice pop melody meant for a soundtrack.
6. lazy, swung acoustic + vox with some backup vocals. quite pretty.
7. with drums, builds up with a little more tension than others.
8. sad and slow, acoustic + vox. extremely singer-songwriter.
9. like #4.
10. forward moving, climactic pop song with piano and drums.
11. beautiful melody, sad and lazy acoustic number. easily my fav.