Santa Monica streets’ favorite “lunatic” and one of S-Curve Records’ most famous artists, Andy Grammer continues to reach receptive ears hungry for authentic beats and relatable lyrics. This passionate pop artist’s talent and charisma make it evident that he had been destined for fame for such a time as this. Although he attempted to implement the idea of not forgetting where he came from, it succeeded half-heartedly. Did Grammer lose his way ‘Back Home’?
Grammer was discovered by record producer Steve Greenberg, singing and playing outside with his car battery-powered amplifier and acoustic guitar. In 2011, when his first album came out, he became the first male pop star in a decade (since John Mayer in 2002) to reach Top 10 at Adult Pop Radio with his two biggest solo hits “Keep Your Head Up” and “Fine by Me.” There must be something winsome about a guy with a fine voice, endearing lyrics, and a romantic acoustic guitar. Grammer’s mix of hip-hop, acoustic, and piano rock was inspired by Hack Johnson, John Mayer, Common, and Coldplay, though some can argue that the nature of his style is undergoing some changes.
“Magazines or Novels,” Grammer’s latest album released Aug. 5, 2014, came with a twist that left fans questioning whether he will stick to his acoustic sound and genuine style so candidly originated in the streets of California. From the deeply metaphoric “The Pocket” and the peculiarly romantic “Crazy Beautiful,” to the upbeat, almost vulgar “Honey I’m good” and the buoyantly impatient “Forever;” Grammer changed drastically, turning to more mainstream, technology-produced beats and cynical lyrics.
It was the song “Back Home,” however, that left the word ‘ironic’ replaying in my head. Grammer’s purpose behind writing this beautifully-crafted song was to portray the well-known theme of not allowing the pressures of fame change who an artist is. This album happened to defeat its own purpose as its intention clashes with the meter and lyrics, revealing Grammer’s conformity to the music world’s non-negotiable standards.
Although the great majority of the songs in this album disappointed me immensely, the thought-provoking “Remind You” compensates for my disillusion. In this song, Grammer addresses insecurity and identity, offering to complement, rather than complete, his paramour. With exhorting lyrics, he explains he will be there to remind her why her heart beats when she forgets. It may just be because I am a fool for melodramatic romantic writing, but this song certainly had a pleasurable effect on me.
“Magazines or Novels” is available on iTunes for $9.99 and Amazon Prime for $10.00 plus shipping. Grammer is currently on tour and will be in Florida from Nov. 13 through Nov. 16. For more information and news about the album, concert dates and locations, and/or Andy Grammer himself, visit www.andygrammer.com/news.