Currently living in Syracuse, New York singer/songwriter Peter MacDonald has been making music nearly all his life. Originally based in NYC, MacDonald started off as a violinist as a kid before turning to the guitar at age 13. MacDonald later received a B.A. in Music before cutting his teeth as a live performer in various cities across the U.S. including Chicago, Nashville and New York City.
He describes his music as “city & eastern,” and it is a blend of rock, electronic, folk and soul. While that is true, I think we should throw in some lounge into the mix, since MacDonald’s crooner-style vocals were a definite throwback to the ‘50s and ‘60s and Michael Buble. There’s something so charming about this collection of songs off his debut EP Nothing that I’m sure a lot of you out there will end up loving it as well.
Nothing opens up with “Punching Bag,” where some reverberating guitars enter the sound. Next, MacDonald’s crooner-style vocals come in for a dynamic appeal. I loved how he coos and croons with feeling. The beats and guitars along with MacDonald’s vocals made for a very soulful combination. Some synths and guitars strut in for a mesmerizing pull on “Far From Perfect.” I enjoyed the dance-worthy tunes on this track. MacDonald’s vocals came across here as a little monotone and I was instantly getting an ‘80s sound. This proved to be a more somber undertaking and I was also getting some melancholy vibes. I was also reminded of Johnny Cash. Some guitars and bass enter the vibes on “Trap Star.” I felt like this was a direct throwback to ‘90s and ‘00s bands like Sublime and Lit. I loved the laidback vibes here.
“Here I Am” is a total 180 from the previous tracks. Starting off with a more acoustic vibe, MacDonald’s low rumbling, crooner-style vocals immediately reels listeners in for a great vibe. I liked the simmering energy of this track. Lastly, some sparse guitars start off “I Want To Get Out.” Then some beats arrive for a sultry, Latin vibe. MacDonald’s vocals on this song sounded very smooth and appealing. I think he really struts his stuff here for an unbelievable performance. What a closer this proved to be!
All in all, I think MacDonald has got something here. Over some guitars and beats, the sound is rather sparse. But MacDonald manages to jazz things up with his vibrant and robust vocals, which is the focal point of this album. His emotionally powerful singing style really went on to ‘wow’ me and I’m sure a lot of other audience members will be impressed as well. Overall, this was a good start and I can’t wait to see more!
