Review: "Crazy Child" Album by Jordan Ziskin
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An emotionally raw piece of work, Brooklyn based Jordan Ziskin is a deft singer-songwriter on the captivating “Crazy Child” album. Proving to be an exceptional storyteller, these narratives unfurl with a true undeniable sense of life.
The usage of rock, folk, and chamber pop within the sound further lends it a fully-fleshed out quality. Jordan lets these tracks build, grow, and burst forth in tremendous blooms of color. Melodically rich, it is easy to get lost in the multi-layered, multi-faceted approach. Volume is a must, for the way it washes over the listener has a patient cadence to it. Such a wide range of instruments adds to the beauty of the album tying it together into a cohesive whole.
The way Jordan lets the sound get drenched in sun gives it a golden, AM pop playfulness to it. With a classic cadence to it, it recalls a bit of the Fleet Foxes’ clever, creative arrangements. A honeyed spirit defines the work as there is an optimism to the whole of the album, and the way the tracks interact adds to the compelling calming effect. In this way, the way he captures these small moments recalls the love of one’s surroundings that the Kinks did so perfectly.
“Don’t Let Me Down” sets the tone for what follows, as a big-hearted ethos enters into the fray featuring some fantastic guitar work. Giddy energy drives the tender touch of “Mexico”. By far the highlight of the album comes from the passionate performance of “Three Dimensions”. Aptly named, how Jordan lets the track evolve feels masterful.
Stripped to the essentials is the spirited yearning of “Think Of Me”. The fluttering piano work of “I’ll Be Waiting” gives the song an urbane sophisticated. Sly guitar work weaves itself into the fantastic, easy-going grooves of “Broadway”. Gentle delicate gestures grace the fragile “Crazy Child” with an intimacy that has a compelling cadence to it. A reflective presence takes shape on the thought-provoking bliss of “Sunsets” that closes out the album.
The “Crazy Child” album shows off the incredible skill of Jordan Ziskin in crafting a world that feels so warm, welcoming, and reassuring.