Jacob Abello
From Norman, Oklahoma – the city that birthed crazy bands (and crazier band names) like the Flaming Lips, Starlight Mints, and Evangelicals – comes 23-year-old indie/pop/whatever singer and songwriter Jacob Abello. Okay, so his name may not be quite as prolific as those of his counterparts, but that hasn't stopped Abello's debut album "Nothing But Gold" from garnering much-warranted attention. Recorded at Blackwatch Studio with musicians such as Justin Meldal Johnson (Beck, Nine Inch Nails) and James McAllister (Sufjan Stevens, Pedro the Lion), Abello's songs range in theme and mood from quiet, contemplative mornings to late night, raucous dance parties. Tying it all together is Abello's youthful exuberance and intimated naivety, spilled over the album in the form of a shining voice. Abello released "Gold" in October 2009 to a sold out show in Norman, OK and to nothing but raving reviews from local publications such as The Oklahoma Gazette and The Oklahoma Daily.
Since it's release, Abello's live shows throughout Oklahoma and Texas have given the performer a reputation for theatrics and shock value. From his over the top performances (backup dancers and crucifix poses come to mind) and eccentric outfits (he is known for his skin tight gold spandex Freddie Mercury-esque unitard), Abello's shows are known to be anything but boring. Fans flock just as much to see what might happen as for the music. Some recent highlights for Abello were performing at SXSW 2011 at the Oklahoma Film and Music Official Showcase as well as Blackwatch Studios Unofficial SXSW Party. Also in 2011, Abello played for 400+ crowd at the Norman Music Festival and also opened for Taylor Momsen's (of Gossip Girl fame) band "The Pretty Reckless" earlier this year.
Abello is currently working on a new LP "My Body Ain't No Temple" at Blackwatch Studios, slated for Spring 2011 release. The project is still under wraps, but it's safe to say you will not expect what's coming as this young performer loves a good surprise.