It’s been a long time since I’ve heard such a gifted songwriter who is willing to authentically reveal so much of himself lyrically. Benjamin Akira Tallamy’s lyrics work because they’re direct and to the point, with just a hint of mystification that implies a knowledge of how they may be interpreted by the outside world.
His lyrics are able to tap into the stark realities of life and love, Tallamy has found his own style of singing that is both poignant and haunting, which draws you into his world with precision and grace. Musically, his latest single, “To You, We Surrender” varies from full band accompaniment to stripped down solo guitar and vocals.
And although his musical choices tend to carry diverse organic instruments, such as the Guitar, Flute, Djembe and Kibasa, which Tallamy himself plays, as well the Cello and the Trombone, the record flows beautifully. Benjamin Akira Tallamy reminds me of so many singer-songwriters I admire, but comparisons seem pointless because the song stands on its own merits.
The lyrics to many of his songs are printed on his website which indicates that Tallamy is confident in his songwriting, and allows a clearer picture for his musical pieces. In the song “To You, We Surrender”, Tallamy sings; “All I am, is a handful of sand, a small brief strand of something ineffable. And for all our elaborate plans, it is perhaps too grand to say I am even a man.”
Toward the end of the song he sings; “The truth really knocks me down, Somehow, I still get through, And if you can hear me now, Please know, I still need you.” There are plenty of internal struggles going on underneath the surface, and this song will clearly spend a lot of time in your player, as you allow the lyrics to soak in.
Sometimes hidden within the mellow vibe is an undercurrent of desperation, even isolation, which is part of the human condition. This is music from the heart by an accomplished songwriter and singer who is also masterful at a number of instruments. Benjamin Akira Tallamy will grow on you, he’s a bit addicting and replay after replay do him justice.
More About: Benjamin Akira Tallamy is an Anglo-Japanese writer and musician. Ben has several plays and screenplays to his name, including three novels. Primarily a guitarist and flautist, but also capable of playing violin, ukelele, mandolin or clarinet, Ben has been a founding member of The Pyrates and The Mutineers but has since gone on to front indie band; Catherine And The Owl and folk-trio, The Demagogues.
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