Music reviews. CD reviews. Critically hip!

Anyu has also been gigging with different bands for quite a few years but he's gone solo this time. His debut album is entitled Reasons. I can think of several reasons why we should be his audience: Anyu's music has a distinct style. It's moody and contemplative, dark yet smooth. His voice is deep and scratchy, sort of Seal-esque at times. The words are simple yet effective. Additionally, the album is well arranged and crisply produced. Anyu definitely knows what he's doing.

Originally from San Francisco, Anyu has lived around the country. From his website, we learn that he's also an avid traveler and has studied music from around the globe. The world influence isn't very apparent in most of the album except for his use of Spanish lyrics in the title song. But it's nice to know that he has such a passion for all kinds of music.

There were a few songs that stood out on Reasons. The song Sasha, about his daughter I presume, is a pretty song toward the end of the album. Anyu observes: "The pictures you paint: sunshine and water...Don't worry honey/I'm the one in the sun." It's simple but it works. The title song, Reasons, is one of the more upbeat tracks on the album. It has a good, latin influenced beat. It reminded me a little of the artist Juanes.

I think Anyu could take a few tips from Seal actually. Perhaps he could stretch his songs a little bit with an interesting bridge or some other elements of surprise. But, for the most part, Reasons has a solid sound and it's enjoyable to listen to.