On rainy days I'm not typically the cheeriest person, but right now, sitting in a café in NYC with an almond latte and croissant, listening to Tom Misch, I'm really content.
Even before I started this blog, I knew I wanted to write about Tom Misch, a 19-year-old composer/songwriter/guitarist/singer/violinist from London, but I never knew in what context. Today -- a rainy day -- seems like the perfect way.
When I first heard "On My Mind" via Hype Machine (an awesome place to find new music, by the way), I was pretty much enthralled by his music. While the song seems simple at first listen, I think that's the very magic of his music: it's seemingly simple, but with layers of beats, instrumentals, and soul-soothing goodness underneath.
"On My Mind" is a great example of how Tom Misch manages to balance easy vocals, hip-hop inspired beats, and a bit of the blues -- a combination of sounds I've never heard before. Not to mention it's incredibly charming as well.
He plays ultra smooth guitar riffs, produces J Dilla-inspired beats (which he talks about here), and sings lyrics of his own. Although he is currently a one-man show, he recently collaborated with Carmody in their joint EP entitled Out To Sea. While the EP is not as "jazzy," I love it for its acoustic, emotional and beautifully pure quality.
I'd describe Tom Misch's music with these words: bluesy, experimental, soulful, cool and very chilled; in other words, perfect to cure those rainy day blues. Since much of his music is instrumental, it's also great for getting a bit of work done.
And, music aside, I admire him for pursuing music for the artistry itself, rather than for the side effects that come with being a musician.
I'm a strong believer in not focusing on an image particularly, but letting the music be the sole reason people like you as an artist.
Tom Misch is one of my favorite 'artists to watch' in 2015, and I cannot wait to hear what he releases next.
Top Rainy Day Picks: "On My Mind," "Try Again," "Soul Sessions x4," "Can't Explain It," "Man Like You"
Out To Sea Favorites: "So Close," "Outro," "Release You," "Atmosphere"
P.S. Speaking of rainy days, I also made this 8tracks 'rainy day' playlist a while back, if you're interested in hearing my rainy day "classics."