Michael Ess embarks on his musical journey with the diverse and multilayered debut album "Where The Light Breaks."

Empathy always brings multitudes to songwriting— such is the case with the newest endeavor revealed by singer-songwriter Michael Ess in "Where The Light Breaks." Transforming the sentiments residing deepest in his heart into tender songs, this album's an open book: the experienced troubadour remains utterly candid about his experience in dealing with a wide spectrum of emotions, ranging from finding love again to losing someone close. This diverse album takes the listeners on a sentimental and impactful voyage.

As the first major entry into the daunting realm of being an artist, this project has a multi-faceted appeal. Taking inspiration from a variety of artists (as Michael claims to be inspired by the likes of Peter Gabriel, Jethro Tull, and Yes and more icons), the album retains a radio-friendly nature with its production and songwriting; nevertheless, the nuances and creative aspects give more layers. Genre-switching, for instance, takes precedence here, offering sonic fluidity and distinctiveness not quite expected in the midst of a debut showcase. This sincere willingness to break predictability ends up becoming a crucial asset for the album.

A heartwarming opening unfurls with "Aphrodite Dancing," a rock ballad that integrates soaring guitar solos and ethnic percussions as the performance, heady with feelings, has helplessly fallen in love ("I'm emotion's battleground//You are Aphrodite Dancing"). Altering the ongoing pattern, the tertiary addition "Mandala in Blue" is a fascinating Jazz-fusion rock composition— acted out by syncopated drum grooves, sultry notes of brass, and soulful guitar notes. 

As if marking its inevitability, heartbreak arrives with "I See Your Eyes": resounding cinematic drums give way to the singer revealing the despair, a melancholic performance carried forward by jangly, crystalline guitars and brisk drums. Despite the emotional weight imposed by such tragedy, hope hasn't been crushed ("I've lost my way, but I'm learning how....your burden's heavy, but your spirit's strong). On a similar note, "Undaunted" marks the perseverance instilled in the human spirit, as the vocalist urges to embrace that all through life's ups and downs. The composition has satisfying blues-rock arrangements with crisp guitar tones and vibrant horns adorning the smooth light rock rhythm.

Compassion is one of the core impetuses on this LP: on "One Kind Word," the medley of instruments (such as the chiming xylophone and organic shakers) merges with a message intent on being grateful in a wholesome ensemble. Tackling a heavier contemporary issue, "Abraham's Lament" emphasizes the harrowing conflict in the Middle East; the vocalist earnestly preaches for peace and unity, the lyricism containing chants in Latin, Hebrew, and Arabic for a potent effect.

More instrumental action follows in the evocative "First Snow," a classy Jazz composition meant for introspection— smooth bass and rippling piano guides the finely plucked guitar melody, flowing in conjunction and harmony. 

"My True Home" brings a pleasant optimism: perhaps taking inspiration from 50s rock with the signature guitars, a buoyant and summery quality exists in the cheery vocal delivery (which is overjoyed from returning home), and also resonates through the upbeat instruments. The final track is a devoted ballad, following in the footsteps of the album opener— involving gradual percussions and guitars, snugly fits the singer's love letter here, ample with tenderness that emanates throughout this album.

Listen to “Where The Light Breaks” on Spotify, and stay tuned with Michael Ess on Instagram.