Patrick Cleandenim

No matter how you end up viewing Patrick Cleandenim, you have to give him this: the guy takes risks. Like label-mate Zack Condon (aka Beirut), Cleandenim makes the dicey move to disregard most modern musical aesthetics and instead falls back on those of a much older nature. Old Tin Pan Alley jazz, swing and lounge music are the reference points of choice on Baby Comes Homes, making Cleandenim’s debut more fitting for Fred Astaire or Gene Kelly than for most contemporary listeners. However, this isn’t to say Baby Comes Homes fails in a modern context. On the album, Cleandenim, a 22-year-old Kansas native turned New York City boy, flaunts his timeless flare for hooks and melodies, as well as charisma. With his deep Scott Walker croon and a full-on orchestra behind him, he turns songs such as "Cognac and Caviar” and "So You Think You’re Gonna Live Forever” into tasty pop nuggets regardless of their Broadway leanings. For some, all the jazz hands may become a bit much. But if you like a little swing in your step, say hello to your new cherry poppin’ daddy.