When We Come To

Description

When We Come To is the full-length debut album by the American singer and songwriter Michael Miller, self-released on his own label Shiny Shiny Records in March 2003, in co-operation with Fools of the World. Featuring musicians like Lyle Workman, Joe Ongie, as well as Aaron Smith and Michael Roe of the 77s fame.

The folk poppy title track contains one of those gorgeous muted melodies that you would like to get out of your head, but it simply refuses to leave. Michael Miller has been gently creating a small following in and around his home base of Los Angeles and Orange County while sharing the stage at larger venues with the likes of Maria McKee and Daniel Lanois and working with Beck’s guitarist. Whereas an artist like Damien Rice lets his pretensions get the best of him (some of his songs are brimming with literary phrasing and overlong dramatics), Michael Miller relies on pure straightforwardness to accompany his discreet acoustic backdrop. In the same way that Nick Drake called upon on his «Northern Sky», as a liberator, Miller seems to confide in the splendor of a star-filled nighttime drive. If bands like Coldplay and Damien Rice get all the credit and airplay, then there’s no reason that people shouldn’t be listening and supporting those with similar objectives and intentions like Miller.

Like a less-grandiose Jeff Buckley, Miller’s clearly in touch with emotions that most keep tucked away, and has no qualms with bringing them to the surface for others to embrace. As quiet, calm, and sedating as his music is, it also contains a sparse, universal quality that is both tranquil and poignant. With finger-picked acoustic ballads that shimmer and bend, Miller’s near-whisper of a voice is one of imminent strength as he sings about weakness nearly collapsing over himself with a song like «Lonely Suite».

But there’s even some quirkiness to be found, such as «The Ballad of Mr. George and Miss Jenny» that sounds like a White Album outtake. A lot of the words are repeated, and he should definitely try to expand his lyrical horizons. But his crusade is a noble accomplishment that should have no problem finding a larger audience, particularly with those who love somber, brooding hymns about love-lost and found. Fans of Travis take note. This is also another one of 2003’s best, perfect for late-night listening with your loved one over a cup of Peppermint tea. [James Laczkowski, Mantis Magazine, 11/17/2003]

> Apple Music (https://music.apple.com/us/album/when-we-come-to/46597577)

CD tracklist:

01. Lover I Know – 3:18
02. Gracetown – 4:05
03. When We Come To – 4:34
04. Smile Priscilla – 3:47
05. The Ballad of Mr. George & Miss Jenny – 5:06
06. Naked Prayer – 2:52
07. Lonely Suite – 6:34
08. This Life – 5:17
09. Forgiven – 2:48
10. Pony Ride – 4:33
11. Some Happy – 1:31