Stanford performing at Jammin Java

George Stanford has some very different ranges in his looks: some days, his head is shaved and he’s pulling off a more prim and proper look, while other pictures indicate that he’s definitely going for the bohemian trend with his long, curly locks. His music, more importantly, is transforming in a similar regard.

[/caption] After realizing his love for music in the brass section of the band, George has since honed his passions for all things music into his debut album, Big Drop, and his follow-up EP, Roll Away. He has a light simplicity on both these records that reminds listeners of carefree, uninhibited moments.

Big Drop has more of a focus on pop chords with its extra backgrounds. Some tracks, like “Nikole,” incorporate jazz and soft, toned-down rock, while other tracks, like “Downriver,” have much darker chords and lyrics permeating the entire song. Roll Away takes a much different, more mature approach to the music. Stanford moves away from all the background noise and focuses on his voice and guitar. He adds a bit of twang to that California feel and is more acoustically-driven in all the tracks. At random times, he even manages to sneak in a Randy Newman sort-of drawl.

Roll Away EP

What’s unwavering in all his music is the relaxed theme. Whether he’s talking about love-lost, facing fears, or everyday life, Stanford puts you in a feel-good mood. Listening to his tracks at work may not be such a good idea, though – they’ll whisk you away to your favorite time beside the fire on the seaside, barefoot and tapping your feet in the sand with friends. Instead, try your darndest to hear the man at one of our Sofar shows. He’ll be joining us…very soon. a preview for your pleasure: