'Holly' is the debut album by American/Canadian/Japanese singer-songwriter Justin Nozuka. Despite not even being old enough to buy a beer in his birth country, (and the fact of the album being financed by his mother), it is a mature collection of expressive acoustic folk songs packed with strong harmonies.
His decision to stave off major label interest and do things his own way certainly wins artistic brownie points, and while many influences have obviously left their mark here, Nozuka manages to carve out a sound of his own. This is due mainly to foregrounding his strong and soulful voice - which is frankly quite exceptional and has an incredible range - with understated production. On 'Oh Momma' in particular you could be forgiven for thinking an adolescent and still-black Michael Jackson has stepped into the studio.
As a whole the collection is reminscent of a "Welcome to the Cruel World" Ben Harper, with the timless slide guitars of 'Be Back Soon' standing next to the more poppy and Paulo Nutini-esque sound of 'Mr Therapy Man'.
With Nozuka at the crossroads age of 18, the recurring theme is unsurprisingly that of growing up and change - no more self-evident than on 'Supposed to Grow Old', penned when just 15. Suggestions of possible future directions can perhaps be found nearer the end of the record, with some subtle use of synthesized beats. The last song even includes a bonus track with a repetetive mantra, beginning with a "wake up, Donnie Darko" sort of moment breaking the silence, just to check we're riding along with Nozuka til the end of the album. And we are.
Dubbed by some as the new-James-Morrison, Nozuka has already shared the stage with the likes of John Cale, and appeared at this year's 'T in the Park'. Judging by this promising first effort, the accolades and opportunities will keep coming.
Justin Nozuka is currently on tour in the UK, Europe and Canada.
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Justin Nozuka - Holly
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