John Mallinen

With soft music and a warm spirit, John Mallinen isn't like most of today's artists. His unpretentious lyrics capture the mystery of living. Our culture is too verbose, says Mallinen as he takes a sip of wine, I want my music to create somewhat of a sacred and restful place, through both song and verse. His simple song structure and lyrical content often address the complexity and abundant simplicity that is life. In his music ups and downs are presented as normal and questions are refreshingly left unanswered. His soothing voice envelop the listener, making them feel at one with Mallinens thoughts.At one moment hell portray delight, relationships gone good, and unrestrained affection. Then, almost in the same melodic breath, he calmly changes lanes, drifting into subtly crafted themes of doubt and heartbreak. While he confronts the confusion and paradox of his own existence, one cannot help but confront their own. And as he lyrically wrestles with life's changing nature he comes off as a kindred to the thoughtful.Mallinen is an artist who convinces the audience to trust him, not because of an airbrushed persona, but because of honesty, recognition of pain, and his warm smile and soft beard. His gentle and rhythmic strum allows one to feel instantly in-tune with his fresh, contemporary folk tunes. On some songs he is gently backed up by Julia Shields, which adds a Sufjan Stevens, almost angelic, feel to his record.Born in Littleton Colorado, Mallinen moved to Philadelphia in 2002 to attend Eastern University. He graduated in 2006 after studying philosophy, feminism, and theology. Like most, he experienced a few existential transformations in college. One in particular that hed rather not talk about led him back to song.Though Mallinen has been a musician since the age of five and an avid guitar player for nearly 14 years, he set down music in order to get the most of the college experience. It took about two years before he realized the dilemma of such a denial of one's self. He sold his Les Paul, bought a Martin, and began to write and perform again. In the year and half that has followed his reawakening to song, Mallinen has shared the stage with the likes of Jeffrey Gaines, Sufjan Stevens, Denison Witmer, John Francis, Devin Greenwood, Birdie Busch and others. He has managed to juggle being a full time student, part time employee, and full time singer/songwriter.In April 2006, Mallinen self-released his debut self-titled EP at the World Café Live with friend Joshua HeardPark. Recorded at MilkBoy Recording, Mallinen's EP has received praise from many local, national, and international performers including Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul and Mary.John is currently booking his first West Coast tour, and has plans to record a full length record upon return.