Artist of the Week: Michael Nappi

At first listen, it never would have occurred to me that Here We Go Again was Michael Nappi's debut album. Incredibly well produced, the album encompasses 13 versatile and radio friendly tracks. Recorded with producer/songwriter Steve Buonanotte and mixed by Grammy Award-winning mix engineer, Jeff Juliano (John Mayer, Jason Mraz, Dave Matthews Band), Here We Go Again is a solid debut release. One can only wonder when Nappi will rightfully explode on the music scene.

Nappi’s passion for music began at an early age with his introduction to his father’s vintage LPs that included The Beatles, Johnny Cash and Elvis. While in fourth-grade, he picked up trumpet and could frequently be found serenading his neighbors from his porch. As a teen, Nappi composed, recorded and performed his music locally.

Of performing, Nappi says, “Whether it’s been to five people slung over their bar stools or to sold out crowds in 5,000-seat theaters, I’ve always considered it a privilege to work as a musician.”

Whether he's talking about broken promises and failed relationships in "7:26," or infatuation on "Disturbed," his singing intrigues the listener. A mix of acoustic ballads and more energetic rock numbers, one thing is certain: Nappi's memorable melodies won't leave your head.

While his singing style is reminiscent to that of Train's Pat Monahan, it's his versatility that impresses most. Here We Go Again was created from a collection of personal stories and, as a result, encompasses introspective and relatable lyrics. On first single, the catchy and haunting "7:26," Nappi sings: "Every drop of rain/Has a story to be told/Before it hits the ground/Giving up and letting go."

With more of an upbeat, electronic beat "Save the Night In a Bottle" hints at the grandeur ambiance of U2. Begging resemblance to U2's "Magnificent," the listener can practically envision Nappi sharing the stage with Bono.

The production quality on Here We Go Again is impressive and Nappi continues to surprise the listener on each track. "Perfectly Clear" features deeper vocals from Nappi with soaring guitar interludes and spot on percussion accompaniment while "Limousine" is a fun party number inviting a girl to "take a ride in my limousine." With a debut release this good, Nappi's "Limousine" dream may become reality.

For more on Michael Nappi, visit him on MySpace.

Recommended: For fans of Train, Better Than Ezra, U2.

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