Eric Hutchinson's album "Sounds Like This," is an interesting album name. You don't know what Eric Hutchinson sounds like? You are definitely missing out. It's a diverse plethora of style pouring from the heart of Eric Hutchinson. This is Hutchinson's third album and his talents are as diverse and entertaining on it as ever. He not only provides the vocals, but also plays piano, acoustic guitar, keyboard, percussion and the moog bass. He is supported by other musicians on this album as well, providing an amazing background.
The sound of Hutchinson's music has drawn comparisons from many styles, from Jason Mraz to Stevie Wonder and even The Beatles. When heard, only one thought should cross a person's mind: originality. His album is a clash of styles that form a symphony of great music. He has a touch of green-eyed soul, as some might say.
His opening act, "OK, It's Alright With Me," is how you will feel about the song describing how living a life has its problems, but they should not affect who you are. The album exerts mellow vibes that aim to calm the nerves of its listeners. It is a mellow style that encompasses the talents of Hutchingson's physical abilities and his understanding of many people's daily grinds.
The album has a song that not only sounds great, but also tells a story in a subliminal fashion. "Outside Villanova" is actually a song about him getting into a relationship with an under-aged girl, also known as "robbing the cradle." It turns out that he gets arrested at the end of his story and never really figured out why he wanted the relationship. The song is so smooth that you tend to disregard what the song is about until you recite the lyrics yourself.
The only problem I have with this album is its length. Only 10 songs long, it won't please those looking for an extensive collection. The quality and re-playability of this album should make up for the fact that it is so short. I didn't even notice it until I went through the album a second time.
This album is for listeners who like music that is mellow but fun and creative. It is also an album for those who have a sensitive ear for instrumentals. Grading this album on a five-star scale, I would give it a 4.5. It has great tracks that are going to be replayed generously. Hutchinson was wise to name the album as he did; he really sounds like this.
