Philip Bell

simulacrum n 1: an insubstantial or vague semblance 2: a representation of a person (especially in the form of sculpture);Twenty-five year old Philip Bell doesn’t sound like he’s from Maine. The former Missouri resident’s My Simulacrum EP is a ethereal, brilliant, hi-fi indie rock gem – a rare find in the bigger cities, nevermind the sticks of New England where he grew up. But, the seven songs on 'Simulacrum are tailor made for fans of Jeff Buckley’s otherworldly voice, Coldplay’s pop sense and Radiohead ‘s dense, dreamy arrangements. Bell’s work is clearly informed by those bands, but he’s not aping them - Bell has the goods. The emotional complexity of his songs and well thought out arrangements belie his youth, and damn if he doesn’t have an amazing voice. Whatever experiences he had living in Missouri for a few years before returing to Miane have benefitted him. Heartbreak is a bitch, but it sure makes for some great songs.The songs were recorded, at the fortuitous suggestion of a friend, at Tuscon’s hip Wavelab studio under the watchful eye of Craig Schumacher. Wavelab might as well be Calexico’s living room for all the material they have recorded there. It’s hosted other indie greats as well – Neko Case, Richard Buckner, and Giant Sand among others. That history and desert vibe made it’s way into the feel of this excellent recording. Gorgeous guitar work – lush pads of feedback and melancholy chord voicings fill in behind Bell’s acoustic strumming and warm layers of keys and piano. Strings, provided by members of Tuscon Symphony Orchestra and drums from Gary Bruzzese and Winston Watson (Dylan, Zevon) round out the pieces with gorgeous effect.Even through the loud beery crowd, through the din of a million people trying to get wrecked or hook up – Philip’s amazing voice shone through on the night I met him. It was an open mic, and from the first notes of his silky, room-filling voice, my head perked up and my conversation stopped. “Wow,” I thought, “This guy doesn’t suck!” Granted this might not seem like high praise, but those who have been to a few open mic’s can appreciate an oasis of true talent amidst the desert of badly played Creed covers and white guy “blues.” But there he was, singing his ass off in the corner of that smoky bar. Wow. I’m glad I was there to hear him. You’ll be hearing more from Bell in the future. Count on it.~Jon Nolan