For the uninitiated, Stephen Mugford might sound like an obscure name. Yet, at a deeper look, the keen reader might realise the profound talent enjoyed by the Boston-based troubadour. Well, he might be more of a crooner; last year’s album ‘Palooza Beach’ showcased his sharp pulse on soul, jazz and pop ballads, all delivered with elegance and gentle charisma. Mugford’s vocals are the real attraction, wholesome and evocative, nuanced and precise.
Now, the American creative is about to unveil a live EP, featuring a few songs from the aforementioned album. Before we arrive there, though, there are a few singles we should reckon with. ‘Easy to Love – Live’ is one of those. In it, we observe Stephen embracing minimalism and acoustic prowess, wrapping ‘Easy to Love’ into a playfully delicious easy-listening framework. Echoing the likes of Jason Mraz, Paul McCartney and Willie Nelson, Mugford delivers a jazz-informed rendition, letting his vocals flow freely over a simple yet gracious instrumental.
A more comprehensive EP is expected this fall, featuring the support of producer, drummer and guitarist John Escobar and pianist Zahili Gonzalez Zamora. As Mugford explains: “It was a chance to capture the less filtered, raw feelings that all of these songs emanate from. I love the produced versions, but these are simpler and more raw expressions of the deep emotions that were at the centre of each of them.”
Recommended! Discover ‘Easy to Love – Live’ on Spotify:
