Style: Programmed pop/folk; compare to Owl City, OneRepublic, Matt Wertz, Mumford & Sons
Top tracks: “Taken Me a While,” “City Lights,” “Voices,” “Closer”
This one-man band, the brainchild of Brett Allen of Waco, Texas, features the singer/songwriter wrapping his warm voice around a potpourri of pianos, electronic programming, and mandolin. It’s not a common combination, but with the help of producer Kevin Gales (Fiona Apple, Sarah McLachlan, Bob Seger), it builds a bridge between dance pop and folk/rock without watering down either style. Allen’s songwriting is the unifying force—hopeful and faith-filled, along with some smart love songs.
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