Sounds like … a purified version of the blues reminiscent of Marc Broussard and Jonny Lang, with hints of John Mayer’s dabblings in the genre
At a glance … mostly acoustic back-porch blues pop with the occasional electric jam session
Residing in suburban New Orleans has kept Ryan Post close enough to the musical nightlife, but far enough away to start a new family without the glaring distractions of the Crescent City. The culture has certainly rubbed off on the 27-year-old’s instrumental pedigree, while his lyrics strive to shift listeners away from sinful snares.
“The Prodigal” assures the listener of God’s redemption from sex, drugs, material entrapment, etc. without ever pointing a judgmental finger. The young father also provides words of wisdom to his infant son across “Carson’s Song,” which also benefits from jazzy keys and soulful saxophone accompaniment.
All the while, Post sounds like a cross between fellow believer/Louisiana native Marc Broussard, along with the bluesy side of John Mayer and more recent material by Jonny Lang. Though faith-based in every nook and cranny, the musical proficiency could easily stand toe to toe with any of the city’s seasoned club musicians.
Post is at his best serving upbeat rhythms and meaty grooves and only detours significantly on the sleepy smooth jazz instrumental “Zeteo.” But the other ten tunes confirm that there’s no reason believers can’t be authentic while blazing through the blues.
More: myspace.com/ryanfpost
Others worth noting:
Prophet Child & B-Anointed
Street Gospel 3 StarsStyle: rap/hip-hop; Kanye West, Common, Grits, Da’ T.R.U.T.H.
In a nutshell: There’s no getting around the obvious rap and rhyme capabilities of this Chicago duo, but the group could benefit from a big name producer. Less than stellar sound aside, Prophet Child & B-Anointed seek to keep kids off the streets and empower them toward a Christ-centered life.
More: pureatheartmusic.com
Robert Mauti
Robert Mauti 4.5 StarsStyle: piano pop/rock; The Swift, Plus One, Jamie Cullum, The Afters
In a nutshell: He used to dream of playing for the Pittsburgh Pirates, but Robert Mauti’s exceptionally talented in the recording studio, as evidenced on this five-track sample. With a soulful voice and instantly connective piano pop, this debut is a potentially hit-heavy home run.
More: myspace.com/robertjmauti
Trust The Band
All About You 4 StarsStyle: Latin rock; Santana, Los Lobos, Los Lonely Boys
In a nutshell: It’s a jam session from start to finish across this full-length entrée of spicy guitars and potent percussion. Hints of the psychedelic era intersect seamlessly with the modern Latin rock movement, with lyrics forged from a seeker-friendly Christian perspective.
More: trust-theband.com
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Copyright © 2009 Andree Farias subject to licensing agreement with Christian Music Today. Click for reprint information.
