Regular Columnists

Artist: Mike Ian
Album: Puzzle Pieces
Website: http://www.mikeian.com
Genre: Pop/Rock
Technical Grade: 9/10
Production/Musicianship Grade: 10/10
Commercial Value: 9/10
Overall Talent Level: 10/10
Songwriting Skills: 10/10
Best Songs: Puzzle Pieces, My Lucky Day, Ticket To The Moon
CD Review: Puzzle Pieces is a very nice piece of work from Jersey guitarist/producer, Mike Ian. Strong songwriting is supported by excellent production and that makes a very listenable record. Mike Ian wrote all the songs as well as providing tasty guitar and very high quality vocals. Since no other musicians are listed on the notes, I assume Ian was the one man band. For me, that makes it an even more impressive CD. Every song is a catchy pop pastry, it’s tough to settle on one or two to mention here but Puzzle Pieces, the title track, features great vocals, a twangy country guitar, and a melody that stays long after the song is over. My Lucky Day starts simply with just the vocal and guitar before the full band kicks in with sweet harmonies and a great hook. The song goes on for four minutes while slipping through different musical textures and interesting arrangement choices. It’s mesmerizing. This is great songwriting and great production. Mike Ian is the real deal. The songwriting really shines here. The songs are hopeful, optimistic and filled with great hooks that grab hold and don’t let go. I really like Puzzle Pieces and hope to hear more from Mike Ian. I’ll be passing Puzzle Pieces around to everyone I know.