Magical and melodic, Ben Jelen exudes talent from the depths of his very soul. This was my first chance at getting to see Ben perform live and it was a delightful experience watching him share the stage with his band, three very talented musicians dubbed the Zodiac 7 (James Cruz, Kiyanu Kim and Ian O'Neill).
Opening the show with Otherside, I was instantly drawn into Ben’s world. His charisma and vocal prowess command every eye to center stage and wrap you in a blanket of warm sounds and honest, insightful lyrics.
Philosopher and Counting Down were up next with each band member all equally adept in their passion and delivery of this exceptional material. From the twangy guitar infused riffs of Driver, to the sweet and simple piano notes on Give it All Away and the violin laced ballad Setting of the Sun, Ben proves he is a not only skilled in producing and writing BUT performing his music live as well.
Other exciting tunes from Ben’s debut album “Give it all Away” (Maverick) and latest EP, “Revolution” were also performed, including: Balance, Ex-Sensitive, Where do we Go (one of my personal faves!!), Wreckage and Vulnerable.
Ben’s music digs deep and is etched with a passion and synergy shared by band mates that is uniquely refreshing. An act that will no doubt take your breathe away.
