"grace"
Brian Chang
(Nakamoto Music Group, no serial number)
There is -- to state the obvious -- only one chance to make a good first impression. Brian Chang does so with his debut album. His voice radiates an irresistible cheerfulness across an eclectic collection of what most people will likely find mostly unfamiliar songs. The unfamiliarity doesn't matter. Chang's voice makes all of them interesting listening, even when the lyrics become stream-of- consciousness exposition.
Music industry veteran Derek Nakamoto does well by Chang as his producer and keyboard accompanist. The elaborate arrangements with additional instruments and voices don't take away from Chang's work. (Chang also plays ukulele and guitar.)
A solo arrangement of "I'll Remember You" -- just Chang and his tenor ukulele -- adds a beautifully crafted take on an island classic.
Visit BrianChangMusic.com.