Band to Watch: Jeff Beam
Jeff Beam writes the type of sleepy, psychedelia-infused jams that my mind absorbs like comfort food. His reverb-heavy vocals are reminiscent of Jim James’ trippier material, but the delivery comes across as more sinister. On his LP Be Your Own Mirror, Beam creates an environment where the familiar becomes not-so. The album is something like attending a masquerade ball where the guests are served mushroom tea. In Beam’s world, the moon won’t glow, solutions are destroyed and everyone speaks existentially.
The Portland, Maine native has released a significant amount of material for an artist only 24 years old. Be Your Own Mirror is Beam’s fourth solo effort. He is also a former member of the Boston’s The Stereo Flys and current member of The Milkman’s Union. Beam’s ability to work as a multi-instrumentalist makes him a versatile asset.
Beginning June 19, Beam will hit the road for a handful of East Coast tour dates in support of his solo record. Listen to the lead-off track from Be Your Own Mirror, “Whispering Poison in his Ear” and watch the video for single “Now” below. If you are lucky enough to be in the area, check him out in the flesh later this month.
Connect with Jeff Beam via Facebook | Twitter
Tour Dates
- June 19 @ The Knitting Factory in Brooklyn, NY
8PM – $10
w/ Soft Bullets and Wintersleep
- June 20 @ Barley Pub in Dover, NH
9PM – Free
w/ Soft Bullets and Tan Vampires
- June 21 @ Church in Boston, MA
8PM – $8
w/ Soft Bullets
- June 22 @ The Firehouse in Worcester, MA
9PM – Donations Accepted
w/ Soft Bullets, Sexy Neighbors, Broadcaster & Graywolf
- June 23 @ Empire in Portland, ME
9 PM – $6
w/ Soft Bullets & Sea Level
Written by Rob Peoni
Video: Fiona Apple “Every Single Night”
Over the weekend, Sundance debuted the official video for Fiona Apple‘s new single “Every Single Night”. The video features Apple sporting a crown of tentacles.
Fiona’s mouthful of a new album, The Idler Wheel is Wiser than the Driver of the Screw and Whipping Cords will Serve You more than Ropes will ever Do will be released on June 19th. But NPR is currently offering fans a first listen. Enjoy the video and pre-order your copy of the release from iTunes.
By Rob Peoni
Video: Barna Howard (The Portland Sessions)
I’ve been wrestling with Missouri native Barna Howard‘s debut, self-titled LP all day. As the day draws near an end, I’m realizing that my review isn’t going to be finished. As a teaser, I thought I’d share a bit of phenomenal video footage courtesy of The Portland Sessions. More and more bands are debuting video trailers for album releases. Why not reviews? Howard runs through three tracks from the debut in just under 11 minutes, offering the viewer a terrific sample of the singer’s gift for honest, character-driven writing in the vein of Townes Van Zandt or John Prine.
My introduction to Howard came in January via MOKB’s premier of his debut single “Promise I Won’t Laugh.” I loved the track, but admittedly forgot to return to the release when it dropped in February. Note to readers: always pre-order. Fortunately, the memory resurfaced and I find myself falling in love all over again. With any luck, I’ll have a review together over the weekend or first thing Monday. Enjoy.
Songs featured:
“Promise I Won’t Laugh”
“Song for Joe”
“Timber, Nails and Tears”
Connect with Barna Howard via Facebook
Written by Rob Peoni
Thought on Tracks 