Pop troubadour
Andy Stochansky aims for the heart, soul, and mind on the captivating
Five Star Motel. Atmospheric, reflective, and emotionally charged,
Stochansky's vocal style warrants favorable comparisons to
Jeff Buckley,
Bono, and Francis Healy. Via arrangements that employ seductive drum loops, Mellotrons, strings, horns, shimmering acoustic guitars, and subtle rhythms abetted by tranquil vocal harmonies,
Stochansky creates a postmodern pop/rock gem steeped in introspection. The moody orchestral backdrop on "One Day" certainly owes allegiance to
George Martin and
Brian Wilson, and cuts including "Stutter," "Clay Pigeon," and "Mavis Said" resonate with somber beauty by way of linear melodies that melt over the backbeat. "Wonderful (It's Superman)" is the lone alternative rock anthem tossed in for good measure.
Stochansky is an artist to keep an eye on and, in all probability,
Five Star Motel is a record that will stand the test of time. ~ Tom Semioli