By Megan King
With all those other lovesick singer/songwriters trying to make their own mark on the music scene, what’s Michael Tolcher going to be able to bring to the table that we haven’t heard a million times before? Well, for one, his debut album, I Am, isn’t full of all those mushy, sappy love songs. I Am, just as the title suggests, is an album full of personal, insightful, and meaningful songs about growing up, moving on and learning.
The first track, “Mission Responsible,” gives the listener a general idea of what Tolcher is all about. Showing his own funky and eclectic style right away, “Mission Responsible” is an upbeat and inspirational song about being a leader in the world and taking charge. More encouraging lyrics continue in songs like “Sooner or Later” and “Miracle,” a song with an obvious political theme. Tolcher successfully mixes his message with a creative, upbeat melody.
Tolcher, like many other musicians, began his musical career singing in his Lovejoy, Georgia church choir. “The Sun Song” displays this upbringing in its lyrics: “Here comes the sun / Over my head / Show me a path and I’ll be led / Walking alone / I’m not afraid / I have my wings to fly away.”
While the album is chock-full of meaningful and insightful words, Tolcher succeeds in not making it too preachy or righteous. In fact, Tolcher’s playful and fun side is shown in “Taxi Ride Kinda Night” and “Kiss and Tell”-with strong beats and light-hearted lyrics, these tunes will definitely get you singing along.
“Kings and Castles,” the 11th track, displays more of Tolcher’s gift for words. Describing the reluctance we all have growing up, Tolcher croons: “People said it would go so fast / Before you know it, you’ll be here / Living life innocent just don’t last / It gets harder every year.” The last track, “Waiting,” displays a much heavier rock sound and is a solid way to end the album.
Touring with label mates Maroon 5 and Michelle Branch this summer, Tolcher’s debut album, I Am, is quickly achieving notice throughout the country. And with collaborators like ?uestlove (The Roots) on drums and Gavin DeGraw on piano, it’s also gaining praise throughout music industry executives. His touching and perceptive lyrics, combined with a great melodic sound, have created a solid first CD that set him apart from all those other singer/ songwriters trying to break onto the scene.
