Bridesmen, Someone Who Loves Me Review
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Kenton Chen, AKA Bridesmen, is a Los Angeles based indie neo-soul, R&B singer/songwriter who has a warm mellifluous voice that he fashions to the sounds of modern R&B. Known for his work on NBC’s Sing-Off, as well as his performances with Postmodern Jukebox and Scary Pockets, Chen’s latest project is a radical departure from his jazz/a cappella roots. The root of his new project, Bridesmen, is an outlet for Chen to create around the theme of expressing individual freedom and responsibility, the singer narrates the emotions of loneliness and the effect it can have on people. Chen strives to explore the darker side of human nature, the dichotomy of morality and how to be a good person in a world that ostracizes you, i.e. a ‘bridesmen’ at a wedding. Chen has found success performing/supporting with artists such as Katy Perry, Kesha, Sara Bareilles, Mary J. Blige and Jennifer Hudson, as well as touring with Portugal the Man and Ben Folds. His work with Postmodern Jukebox has reached over 8.6 million views on YouTube, garnering attention from across the globe. Chen is releasing the first single in the series called, “Someone Who Loves Me.” Thematically the lyrics address the loneliness we all feel throughout our lives and assures others that we are not alone. “It’s okay to be sad, to be frustrated, even angry in our pursuit of life, love, and happiness. And the more aware and vulnerable we can be about it, the more we can be there for each other”, confides Chen. With this sentiment in mind, the result is stunning. That’s the short of it!
Positives:
Electro pop that is firmly built around the rhythms and sounds of neo-soul. Chen’s vocals are ripe with vocal technique and emotional transmission.
Bottom Line:
Chen has created a wonderful neo-soul fueled track with “Someone Who Loves Me.” With a soulful drum pattern, rich deep bass sounds and bluesy guitars, Chen sings his thoughtful lyrics. Chen’s influences from jazz and gospel are heard in his embellishment during his vocal phrases. His sense of time is soulful, pushing and pulling in all the right spaces. The band is equally prodigious. Chen’s vocal rang is impressive. Love the fact that Chen uses a live band, that really brings the feel home. This is great modern neo-soul single, performed by a very gifted vocalist.