Joshua Radin Album: “We Were Here”

I heard "Winter" from this album and was hooked: though I'm not really a fan of Zach Braff's acting/movies, the man has incredible taste in music (as the Garden State soundtrack proves). Part of me is glad Joshua Radin isn't yet commercialized, but notice I write, "yet." Seeing the huge similarities between Radin and, say, the Shins, John Mayer or Iron and Wine I'm just waiting for the day for when Radin is played outside of JC Penny commercials.

Anyone who likes some soft accoustic and wistful vocals should at least listen to the sample songs on Amazon. "Sundrenched World" is another beautiful song with haunting cello lines and gorgeous chords. Even some of his lighter songs like "Photographs" are far from fluff-- any artist who can also write lyrics about Simone DeBeauvoir or Sylvia Plath is just awesome.

I can't stop listening to this CD....seems to be quickly becoming the soundtrack of my life. I saw Joshua live this past Monday at the Mercury Lounge (which was the second time I have had the pleasure of seeing him in the past two months). This CD is the next best thing to hearing him perform live. The band has a cellist and a bass player who are just the right blend with Josh and Priscilla's amazing voices in combination. And just as an aside, Joshua could not have been nicer or more humble both of the times I met him after his shows. "Will's Song" is better every time I listen to it. "Fear You Won't Fall" took the words right out of my mouth and is my newest ringtone. Buy this CD!! You will love it.

I first heard Radin on a soundtrack that a friend let me borrow. I bought this CD shortly after and have not been disappointed. If you like artists like Jack Johnson, Damien Rice, Snow Patrol, etc. give this one a listen.

If you're looking for an easy listening CD this one has your name on it. After hearing "Winter" on a Scrubs episode I was blown away by the heart Joshua put into his song (I think it also had to do with a perfectly matched song for the episode it was in [Season 3 - My Screwup]). All the songs play well but particular standouts are "Winter" and "Closer". Take a listen to the samples or make your way to JoshuaRadin.com for more of a listen.

One of my favorite discoveries of 2006. Great record with a nod to Simon and Garfunkel/ Nick Drake style singer-songwriter material. Great lyrics, melodies and harmonies. Take a listen to Star Mile and Closer and you decide.