Indie-rock artist Seth Adam introduces his new LP, Fits and Starts and Stops, a 10-track collection of evocative songs.
Speaking about writing the album, Adam says, “Music has always been a source of catharsis. I had to learn to trust myself more writing about uncomfortable topics. I most definitely had to stretch into uncharted songwriting territories.”
Hailing from New Haven, Adam played in various bands as a teen and into his 20s and then began performing under his given name, followed by releasing three albums, a live record, and three EPs. Working with producer David Immerglück (guitarist from Counting Crows) unfolded his sound, resulting in nominations for Male Performer of the Year and Songwriter of the Year at the New England Music Awards.
Adam has shared the stage with Grammy-winning Steep Canyon Rangers, Grammy-winning Robert Cray, Tonic, and Gary Louris (The Jayhawks).
Fits and Starts and Stops begins with “Fraud,” which opens on emerging tones flowing into a potent rhythm topped by platinum guitars pushing out hints of blues-flavored rock. Adam’s voice imbues the lyrics with haunting timbres backed by soft, radiant harmonies. A dazzling guitar solo injects the tune with tight, fierce licks.
Highlights include the contagious, gleaming flow of “Where Is Your Heart,” a scrummy Americana tune with jangly-lite guitars that conjure up suggestions of The Byrds – a blend of SoCal country rock and redolent vocal savors.
“The Blood, It Runs,” a personal favorite, rolls out on a strumming acoustic guitar and then segues into a luscious country-rock melody, dripping with pulsating energy and layers of tasty guitars. While “You Ain’t Gonna Drag Me Down” travels on glossy guitars riding a finessed rhythm as Adam’s smooth, luxurious vocals give the lyrics alluring textures.
The last track, “Lennon’s Song,” features lustrous, shiny guitars, low-slung and gently captivating. Adam displays the range of his voice, infusing the lyrics with tender timbres, at once silky and mellow.
Seth Adam has it going on! Fits and Starts and Stops is one of those albums that the more you listen to it, the more you relish it.
