April 7, 2005 issue of The Daily Athenaeum
(West Virginia University)

This week from the CD Baby files comes the perfect, cheery, warm-weather listen, from (where else?) Southern California. A veteran of the So-Cal music scene, John Hoskinson's first album, Miscellaneous Heathen, was released last August to great local acclaim.

This talented musician and the ones who support him on his debut effort prove you can perfect all that's great about upbeat pop music for just $400, plus about $1,000 for manufacturing. "Ninety-five percent of the CD was recorded in my apartment using my G4 Mac," he said.

So what is all that's great about pop music, you ask?

A splash of Ben Folds-style piano, a pinch of Weezer retro, a Barenaked Ladies-like sense of humor and a golden voice that resembles none other than Better Than Ezra front man, Kevin Griffin. The result is a polished pop sound that's summer-radio ready. In other words, you would never know it was practically homemade. From packaging to lyrics to the bonus trumpet and cello on several tracks, Miscellaneous Heathen is truly a finished product.

The first of 11 tracks is "I Hope I Die Before You Do," a great, funny yet romantic tune that Hoskinson calls on his Web site "basically a twisted love song" to his wife. I'm a big fan of unique lyrics and it doesn't come much more original than, "I hope I die before you do because I can't find another you."

The next songs are mostly guitar-driven, and then on track four, cello is a great addition to a slower "It's Not My Place." "Waiting for Someone to Call," puts a little more focus on piano for the rockin' pop rhythm.

On track seven, "When She Speaks," Hoskinson performs the vocals, piano, guitar and bass. Impressive, but by number seven, trust me, you will already be a devoted fan.

If you don't take my word for it, consider this: The Orange County Register named Miscellaneous Heathen the No. 1 best release of 2004. Robert Kinsler wrote, "With the possible exception of the latest titles by U2 and Snow Patrol, no other 2004 release has enjoyed as much time in my player this year as the debut of John Hoskinson."

And I'll add to that. I can see any one of these songs playing in the background of Fox's The O.C. or at a real-life summer party anywhere from the Pacific Coast to Grant Avenue. He's poignant, yet funny, and dang good for getting you in the mood for sunny summer days.

- Jessica Wiant

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