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“Cus if the music doesn’t hurt, then the music doesn’t work.”

Let me introduce you to the trio known as Andy Suzuki and The Method. Singer and song writer, Andy Suzuki, comes together with percussionist, Kozza Babumba (grandson of Grammy-winner Babatunde Olatunji),  and Jason G, on electric violin, to bring you a powerful experience. My boy Modi put me onto these guys earlier this Fall, since which their track, California, has been my anthem for the season thus far – having lived in New York City for a year, and harboring an unexplaiable desire to experience California, this song really spoke to me. Then Andy sent me their Free Hundred Pianos EP, and I was on board.

Providence is a city (yes, a city) very close to my heart, one which I have a lot of great memories in. I had no idea these guys went to Brown, until I was watching this video, Kozza’s Story, and they started talking about the Ratty. I was like, wait… the Ratty?? Having enjoyed many Fall days on Brown University’s campus in little old Providence, I was thrilled to see some local talent get some recognition and appreciation. Between RISD and Brown, College Hill is a breeding grounds for pure creativity, inspiration and unparalleled genius. So it’s no surprise that these young men hail from here. Needless to say, in addition to them being Ivy League intellectuals, I’m sure they are some pretty chill individuals (seeing as how they chose to go to Brown).

With a soulful sound, introspective lyrics, and a refreshing sense of modesty, Andy Suzuki is a breathe of fresh air to the music scene. You might not categorize him as an R&B singer, but then again, you might. I would say a mix between John Legend and John Mayer. His reflective lyrics and sound also remind me a lot of Plain White T’s and Augustana, two bands I have much admiration for. The track 300 Pianos, which his album is titled after, is a reflection on the artist’s father’s battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.

Download Free Hundred Pianos here. If you like what you hear, you can purchase their full 13-track album, 300 Pianos on iTunes, which I strongly suggest. Also, check out his MySpace, or follow him on Twitter.

Live performance in Providence…

And he even sings Japanese (he’s half-Japanese half-Jewish)…. This song’s entitled Tegami, which I believe means Letter?