The Talented Mr Jeffrey

I'm posting this note I just sent my long-time friend and source of musical inspiration, Jeff Smith, so that the five people who read my blog will spread the word about his music.

His music can be accessed here: www.myspace.com/juffage

And here's the note:

jeff -

had to write you a little review-style note to let you know how great your music is.

these two songs have cemented my confidence in your ability to make it as a musician, or, at the very least, someone successfully involved in the music industry.

in "bombs", first of all, you prove that you can write a great pop song. this one has great melodies, harmonies, dynamics...it's also sweet that, for once, we can hear what you're singing; you aren't hiding behind the instrumental arrangements; you want us to hear what you have to say for a change.

it's with "seoul", though, that I think you've demonstrated what you're fully capable of. this sounds like it came straight from a microphones/mum record, to me, except even more interesting and compelling. your arrangements are just right: interesting, sophisticated, but not overly showy. this song seems like it was made by a jeff who was much less frustrated and much more patient with himself, as not one part of it sounds forced. all the parts operate as portions of an organic whole instead of separately vying for the attention of the listener. the drums, for instance, are much more subtle than you've typically been known to make them, but they perfectly suit the mood of the song and help it to build. i'd say the same thing about all the other parts, too. somehow, the song is over six minutes long, but it doesn't feel repetitive or stretched out at all. and...it makes me feel good!

both of these are songs i thoroughly enjoy listening to and repeatedly want to come back to. if you were to submit a two-song demo containing these to some small-time labels, there is just no way you wouldn't peak someone's interest. trust me.

so, clearly, you can write and record great music. i'll finish off by saying what i've been saying to you for the past few weeks: now all you need is to GET OUT THERE and get involved in some of these communities that Chicago simply must be hiding. jeff, NOW IS YOUR TIME DUDE.

i'm still talking to alex and ben about their living situation. it sounds like they're going to wait until they get up there before they make any decisions. i guess that sorta makes sense...i'll make sure they call you beforehand, though.

peace, talented broseph.

-tobias