Real (CD - 2007)

Recording information: Noisy Neighbor, Nashville, TN.

Real is a refreshingly diverse debut sprinkling elements of soul, funk, and R&B amid solid pop songwriting. Jake Smith originally released the album independently. After sharing the stage with Rocketown Records artist Shaun Groves, Smith's music on MySpace.com attracted the attention of the label's A&R reps. Rocketown picked up the record and re-released it nationally with new cover artwork and radio edits. Songs reflect Smith's real-life experiences, such as facing his parents' cancer, being hit by a drunk driver, and dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in his hometown. The New Orleans native delivers vocals with a masterful control of rhythm and shares these stories with flavorful soul. The David Gray-esque urgency of "This Is Certain" and "Breakdown" slows down to a delightfully groovy party vibe on "Can't Save Your Soul." A shuffling piano interlude in "What I Plan to Do" fits surprisingly well along with a scat-like melody. You may not hear the same brooding and social awareness that comes from John Mayer, but Smith demonstrates a similar affinity for acoustic funk and blues. ~ Jared Johnson minimize