You might not have heard of Michael Lenzi, aka Resplendent, but if you have, you're probably wondering how a guy like this can go so unnoticed. He's that favorite actor or actress you fall in love with at first sight, but in this case, first listen. If you've missed out on the last three records, be here for what might be his last: Am I Free? I Am Free. Resplendent is Lenzi's solo work post-Number One Cup and The Fire Show. He is accompanied by friend and former Number One Cup bandmate Pat O'Conell, who plays guitar and contributes backup vocals.
For me, this record was very intriguing right away; it's really good music and it only takes a couple listens to realize that. It just stops you from what your doing and you tune in. I've turned many of my friends' heads with this record, and it's great for setting a mellow tone for the room you're in. You'll want to keep the music to yourself because it's very connecting, but it shouts to be heard, and you can't help but share what you've come across.
His previous EP's are really good, and I find myself listening to them quite a bit, but this will have almost an awe effect on you. It leads more in a straight line; its consistency adds to the attraction. It's comprised of pop melodies that are seemingly simplistic, but Lenzi also throws in his skill and knowledge of sampling, recording techniques, and song composition. He shows you that he's dreamt up something that's quite different and innovative from what you're used to hearing. Lenzi is not your standard indie-pop artist; he's more like a poet that uses his voice to push the music. He's got the vocal styling of Chris Conley (Saves the Day) but it's not as whimperish. And his lyrics actually show art, depth, thought, and sincerity. The second half is better than the first, and the first half is just as good. He even does a great cover of Rites of Spring's "Drink Deep," making the song completely his own. There's not one filler track on either side of this record.
I'm not sure why Lenzi goes without much recognition, but he shouldn't'. He's truly talented and it shows throughout his catalog of past and present projects. He's grinded it out for ten plus years and this record seems to touch base with that; a few songs show some self-doubt about making music. "A Tourist No More" hints at him calling it quits: "I won't lace another phrase with the beautyness in sorrow, I won't waste another day." The record ends with "Hope," an instrumental of different chops, pops of sounds and effects, and some thick heavy drumming.
Resplendent's works are inspiring; he continues to push experimentation to the brink and has stumbled upon some great results. Am I Free? I Am Free was my favorite album last year, and has become one of my favorite albums of the last five years. I'm just glad I finally got around to reviewing it.
