Released by JetTricks


I Am Sam is a singer songwriter born in London but now based in Sydney, whose style is said to be a mix of Jack Johnson meets Jason Mraz. For me this isn’t a fair comparison as I Am Sam, aka Sam Pierce,  is edgier and far more distinctive. His addition of rap and a rough hip hop sound in his songs allows him to stand out against the mellow tones of Johnson and Mraz.

Opening track ‘Let It Pump' proves this. From the beginning the rapping vocals over the slow backdrop of soft guitars promotes a laid back feel that resembles the theme throughout the rest of the song. His gruffly tones are added to a smoother chorus that doesn’t fail to stick in the memory, whilst the string arrangement in the middle display an artist that is comfortable with being a bit different.

The next two songs are probably where the Jack Johnson comparison can be drawn. Second track ‘Heartstrings’ is upbeat, fresh and innocent; essentially the sound of summer; the fact that Sam now resides in Australia has certainly influenced his music!

Next track ‘Where’s That Love’, with the introduction of a female vocalist, is the most light hearted out of the three and unfortunately the weakest. Until the heavier drum beat kicks in towards the end, it is more of a love song suited for a boy band than a gritty song for an artist that bridges the gap between the sunshine of Australia and the harsh bitterness of the UK.

Posted In Single Reviews, Sep 03 2010. Words - Aimee