Album Notes

Since arriving in New York City in 2002, Mike Beck has become a favorite on the singer/songwriter scene. After having studied jazz piano performance at McGill University, later graduating from Berklee College of Music, and performing in a vast array of projects all throughout the northeast, the 26-year-old from Boston finally felt ready to step into the spotlight. And that's just what he has done, using his unique brand of smart yet catchy song-writing and dynamic stage presence to win over fans one show at a time.

It's "pop with a brain" as Mike likes to call it, and one listen to his current independent full-length release "Whatever You Want" makes this description crystal clear. The music is accessible, well-crafted acoustic rock, but upon closer scrutiny, one discovers many subtle layers of advanced harmony and sonic texture. Mike's sound has been described as Ben Folds or Aimee Mann visiting the aural landscape of Sarah McLachlan or Wilco. Lyrically, he is always honest and witty, addressing a diverse range of topics from "No Bother," a heartfelt soliloquy on love lost to "That Guy," a witty lament on the inability to afford beer in New York.

Recorded at Big Sound in Portland, Maine, "Whatever You Want" is the result of four months of weekend road trips and determination. Featured are Mike's vocals and multi-instrumental skills on guitars and keyboards, plus three members of his live band: Boston-based drummer Daniel Crean, Swedish native Andreas Holmstrom on bass, and Canadian guitarist Rob Ritchie. The production of the record was handled by talented musician and long-time collaborator Jonathan Wyman, who is known for his work with The Rustic Overtones, Jeremiah Freed, 6gig, As Fast As, and Speech. It is Mike's intimate, no-frills stage show, however, that really makes an indelible impression on the listener. Look for him on tour as a solo act and with his band in support of the record.