Stel Furet is probably a new name for many, after all, the Santa Cruz singer-songwriter has just released his debut 5-song EP human nature machine. Yet, listening to these five songs, we might soon forget that “new” tag. There is a number of reasons for that possibility.
First of all, Furet, obviously has an extensive record collection that includes quite a number of what some might call ‘old’ artists. He himself mentions Pink Floyd, The Beatles, and Neil Young. Yet, if you listen to tracks like “next tuesday,” it appears that he’s got quite a few of those old soul and Billy Joel albums as well.
Then there’s the fact that the five tracks here tie into a neat little concept, something quite popular during the ’70s heyday. As Furet puts it himself, “I believe the EP is about the relationship we have with ourselves and how that relationship carries us through the world. How human nature drives us unrelentlessly forward as a collective machine.”
Essentially, both can represent quite a dangerous territory if you don’t know your ‘old’ music that well, or don’t bring at least a modicum of individuality to your music.
Fortunately, Furet passes both of these tests with his mid-tempo/ballad concept that bridges the gap between the ’70s and now with aplomb and ease. Quite a bit of it lies in the fact that he has an immaculate touch with his melodies, those ‘old’ records come out of all his pores, and he supports it with an excellent voice and tasteful lyrics. A definite talent to watch.
