In 1989, Debbie Gibson released her second album Electric Youth, and it blew up mainstream radio charts. The sophomore effort by the teen queen included the mega-hit "Lost in Your Eyes," the catchy title track with a cool accompanying video, and a personal favorite -- the ballad "No More Rhyme." It was also notable in that it launched a fragrance of the same name, and featured the young singer/songwriter wearing a silly hat on the album cover.
But, I'm not here this week to talk about my one-time crush Debbie Gibson or her "Electric" album from over two decades ago. Instead I want to focus on something else that's "electric" in music and arguably more relevant today. Austin's Electric Touch just unleashed their debut album "Never Look Back" on Island Records last week, and they're gaining momentum thanks to breakout first single "Don't Stop" -- not to mention a star-making turn at last year's Coachella fest. The band are currently on tour with Hot Chelle Rae (no relation to Facts of Lifestar Charlotte Rae), and are fresh off a standout performance in their hometown for this year's SXSW.
Electric Touch frontman Shane Lawlor said the band is hoping to take flight by making music that inspires and makes you feel good about life. The Nottingham, England native said for too long musicians focus on the mundane -- why not celebrate everything instead? Last week, the band (which also includes brothers Christopher Leigh on guitar and his fraternal twin Louis Messina, Jr. on drums as well as Isaac Strycker on keyboards and vocals and Portland Musser on bass) performed "Dominos" off their album, and sat down for a brief chat at the Music Conservatory of Westchester. Watch, listen, and feel good about yourself ... um ... now.
"Dominos" Live
Getting in "Touch"
About A-Sides with Jon Chattman
Jon Chattman's music series features artists (established or not) from all genres performing a track, and discussing what it means to them. This informal series focuses on the artist making art in a low-threatening, extremely informal (sometimes humorous) way. No bells, no whistles -- just the music performed in a random, low-key setting followed by an unrehearsed chat. In an industry where everything often gets overblown and over manufactured, I'm hoping this is refreshing.