Tomi Swick - Stalled Out In The Doorway (2006)

From the opening strands of "Come in 2s" from Tomi Swick's debut disc, Stalled Out in the Doorway, two very distinguishable sonic evocations come to mind. Radiohead has undeniably influenced Swick instrumentally, but when it comes to vocals, the Hamilton-based singer offers up an unlikely oscillation between Tom Yorke and Canadian rocker Tom Cochrane. With an ear for creating soaring melodies with memorable pop hooks, Swick's debut is infectious, filled with expansive melodies that could transfer easily from rock to soul or that could even work on Broadway. "Wait Until Morning" is a perfect example of the vastness of Swick's songwriting while "I Trust in (Family)" with it's '70s style provides an interesting mini-symphony for listeners. Swick's one danger is also his most compelling draw: His voice is gorgeous, but tends to deliver only one emotion, an absolute ache of a tone, painting each song with the same desperate, passionate landscape. That aside, Stalled has a number of high points--most find Swick leaving his more complex sound behind for quiet, straight-ahead musical journeys. "Listen Isa" features Swick alone on piano and is quietly compelling, while "I'll See You Again" shows how his emotive vocals charm listeners with a simple love song. File this under sensitive (but not saccharine) singer/songwriters. --Denise Sheppard