Music reviews. CD reviews. Critically hip!

Dr. Stephen W. Becker, aka Le Concorde, is an unique artist. He has a very interesting style of music, combining a John Mayer-like voice with Killers-like lyrics, but he needs some type of exposure to gain mainstream attention. This is one of those artists who will hit it big if MTV2 or VH1 got behind him and really pushed his stuff. The music is fulfilling, and he tells a story through his lyrics and melodies. Most artists concentrate solely on one or the other, but it’s obvious that Becker spends a lot of time practicing and perfecting the music to go along with his words.

Most of the music on Suite is very up-beat, but the message isn't always. Somehow, he makes that work. It’s obvious this record was greatly influenced by his recent divorce, and you can tell that although he still hurts, he wants it to be over.

Becker is a very talented musician, but sometimes individual talent can be taken to an extreme. I listened to some of his older music, and I have to say that his personal style and views come out a bit too much. His music always reflects extreme emotion, but the fact that he worked with David Gamson (from Scritti Politti) means that the record can reach and affect more people. Sometimes another voice in the room, especially one that you respect immensely, makes all the difference.

As far as the music on the disc goes, there are a couple of gems. First, I have to mention the song Lullaby For Dollface. The song is the most emotional of all -- enough to make a grown man cry. There is a well-timed tempo change at the end of the song, perhaps symbolizing the need and desire to move on from past experiences. The other song, I Want You Back, is an anthem for just that: 'wanting her back'. I Want You Back takes you from the point of wanting the girl back to realizing she wasn't the best choice after all to the point of finally moving on. A great song.

I would recommend Le Concorde’s music to any alternative rock fans. If you like The Killers, Mat Kearney, John Mayer, or Matt White, then this CD is worth checking out.