Trevor Hall
Singer/songwriter Trevor Hall cites Bob Marley and Bob Dylan as two of his biggest influences. There is a dominant reggae tone to his music, but through his flowing vocals he has a classic rock sound as well; a combination that is very reflective on his mentioned inspirations. Trevor Hall's sound reminds me a lot of reggae rapper, Matisyahu. The flow and even the meaning of their music is very similar. Fitting enough in Hall's first single off of his album, "Unity," he collaborates with Matisyahu. The song is about a plea to come together in response to the Mumbai terrorist attacks as Hall and Matisyahu come together through their inspired music and desire for peace.
The CD's first number, "Internal Heights," begins on a trance like hippy-esque tone through the strumming, reminiscent of the '70s. Hall really accentuates the song through his long, extending vocals. He lets his voice be carried out into the song, meshing all elements together.
"Sing the Song" is one of the more rapid, fast paced numbers. The song is charged with energy that expands more and more throughout the song. It's an important song for Hall as an artist since it allows him to really express the impact music has had on his life and how it has been a language of its own. "Where's the Love" is one of the other faster paced songs, playing right after the somewhat dreary "House," where Hall hits on his raspier yet very thoughtful vocals with gradual high piano notes that hint at hope and optimism. Still, as "House" is somewhat of a downer in tone, "Where's the Love" is a welcomed change of pace. The number is full of bounce, yet has plenty of depth to it. The song is about opposition to war and the urgency to see everyone as equals and to have peace between us all.
"My Baba" begins on the charming chiming of the xylophone and goes on as a declaration of unconditional love, family values, importance of family, and the vitality of God. Through this song, we get to know Hall and what he holds closest to his heart. Another song that features the xylophone sound for a very simple tone is "Who You Gonna Turn To." Hall sings about how you define yourself through your actions and through those around you.
Trevor Hall has an interesting sound, ranging over a few different genres, primarily rock and reggae. He has strong, expanding vocals that can either be light and therapeutic or a bit more rough and deep. The majority of the songs have a pretty similar sound to them, some are a bit slower and gloomy while the more upbeat and high paced numbers were the most fun for me to listen to. Hall's album has a storytelling quality to it through exploring fundamental issues and emotions. You can tell Hall really had his heart in this CD and the final product was a meaningful, peaceful, and expressive piece of art. We haven't seen the end of Trevor Hall as he shows his potential to create significant and enjoyable music, ensuring he will continue to grow as a musician in the future.