DC Records: Press

Growing up in a very small town on the border between the Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Central School District and Bethlehem Central School District, a mere 20-minute drive from Albany, I never expected to see someone I went to high school with become a pop star. Particularly since I was on the Ravena side of the border.

However, last year, one kid that I went to school with told me he had been recording at a studio a little bit south of Albany. I knew that he was a singer, but I never knew that he played piano and guitar, and that he wrote his own songs. During late night AIM conversations, since both of us are nearly insomniacs, he would send me some demos of songs he was working on.

Then came the day that he told me that he had the opportunity to record with bassist Tony Levin and drummer Gary Burke, both of whom are session musicians who have very impressive track records. Levin has played with the likes of John Lennon, Peter Gabriel, King Crimson, Yes, Dire Straits, and Alice Cooper, just to mention a few. He also writes and records his own solo material and plays live with the Tony Levin Band. Likewise, Burke has played with many big name artists, most notably Bob Dylan.

After much hard work, my friend, under the name Bryan Andrews, released his debut album, Sessions, on August 14 of this year. Sessions, is a mix of mostly pop and gospel sounds. The disc is a tale of heartache put to catchy piano-based pop music.

The 14-song effort imbeds itself in the jukebox that exists within a person's brain almost instantly. After a spoken word intro, Andrews starts off the record with the tune "This Is Me," which is a theme that continues through the entire CD. In the chorus he sings, "I guess this is me/Never anyone else."

Andrews voice can switch from delicate and soft to powerful in a matter of seconds. His vocals make the album. The control he has over his voice makes it impossible to criticize, even if his style of music is not your cup of tea. The singing remains clear and smooth throughout the entire length of the album.

When reading the liner notes, I was surprised to find out that a few other kids who attended my high school were also involved in the project. Matthew Koonz plays guitar and provides backup vocals, and Janelle Bechdol (who lived up the street from me when I was growing up) also lent her talents as a backup vocalist.

The deeply personal and touching lyrics that Andrews will most definitely be noticed for are showcased in songs like "Cold" and "Broken Dream." "Cold" portrays an unfaithful relationship which sparks Andrews to croon, "…you broke my faith in humanity/And you tore me up from the inside out." In "Broken Dream," he pleads, "I wish I could break free from this Hell and then just run away to Heaven." Both of these songs reach down to the deepest part of his heart and soul, and put his emotions on display for their duration.

Highlights include the gospel-tinged track "Everyday," which is prefaced by an organ intro. The song tells of despair that is prevalent in life. However, the song also offers some hope with the line, "Is it all for nothing?/No it's not, there is still something/When you're lost you can make your own Heaven in your mind."

The song "Candlelight," one of the few songs on the record that are guitar-based, almost sounds like an early John Mayer song. The song is perhaps one of the most intimate musically, featuring only Andrews' vocals and two guitars.

The second to last cut on the disc, "No More Left," is almost a rebirth of Andrews. Much of the early part of the album is dedicated to the failed relationships and heartache that consumed his life. "No More Left" is his call to action, his acceptance and good riddance to all that he endured to make this record.

The album builds up to the conclusion that is simply titled "Outro." The track is just over eight minutes in length, and it references nearly every song on the album. The song is affirmation that Andrews has overcome the sorrow and despondence that had led to his construction of these 14 songs, and that he most certainly has what it takes to become a well-known name in the pop music industry.

With all it's tenderness and pop sensibility, the work Andrews put into this project certainly should not go to waste. Although I generally am not a fan of his style of music, the album never lost my interest.

Sessions was released on DC records, and is available for purchase on Amazon.com, CDBaby.com, and was made available on iTunes September 11. If you're into pop music, or even if you just want to support a local musician, Andrews is certainly worth a listen.

Bryan Andrews is one of those rare, spectacular singer/songwriters that can make your skin tingle, your heart-race and your eyes well up with tears. His music is emotional, honest and heart-felt. On his debut album, "Sessions", Andrews gives the audience all he has, putting his entire heart and soul into all 14 tracks of this well-produced, thoroughly enjoyable work of art. "Sessions" is a non-stop, beautiful rollercoaster ride of emotions and a brilliant showcase of his talents. Although Andrews is just 20 years old he writes with the maturity and experience of a much more seasoned musician. His ability to turn even the saddest, most intimate moments and feelings he has experienced into listenable, gorgeous songs is amazing. With pointed lyrics such as "I thank you now for your deception, it freed me from my false perception of you," "Cold," is a scathing, brutally honest look at the aftermath and destruction of the inevitable end of an unfaithful relationship. The beautiful ballad s sound contrasts sharply with its heartbreaking and ugly subject. The clear piano and the beautiful strings mingle and intertwine with the angry and hurt lyrics to create one of the strongest, most stirring and powerful tracks on the album. The gospel-inspired, "Everyday" speaks of abusive relationships and troubled lives, but also shows hope and redemption. It slowly builds momentum, culminating in a fun, soulful organ driven romp. But, it isn't just his songwriting abilities that make Andrews shine. His voice is full, clear, strong and uplifting. His beautiful voice really takes center stage during the pure, quiet "In Your Arms," sending shivers running down the listener's spine. With Andrews' raw talent, his masterful production and the contributions of each guest, the album is truly stunning and beautiful first effort, from a hardworking, talented musician. From the moment you hit play on your stereo, to the very last moments of the final track, "Sessions" will hold you captive and leave you wanting more.