Cosmo Jarvis

Cosmo Jarvis (if that is his real name) is a 19-year-old English prodigy that makes it all look far too easy. His ramshackle songs are overflowing with charm, sitting somewhere stylistically between Badly Drawn Boy and Jay Reatard. And his debut is one of those sprawling double-CD efforts that doesn't even make a dent in the 250 or so songs he has apparently written to date. And maybe that explains how he's managed to pick out enough great material to create two solid albums that show a surprising amount of range. Humasyouhitch has the more upbeat, carefree songs, which are all over the place, in a fun way. It's not particularly consequential, but is catchy and very entertaining. Sonofabitch is a different beast altogether, with its tales of alcoholic parents and other fun dysfunctions. At times, the lyrics are surprisingly dark and definitely at odds with his sunnier songs. Plus, the spoken delivery, which is reminiscent of the Streets' Mike Skinner, reinforces the serious tone of it all. That said, the best moments are breezy songs like "She's Got You," which drifts along with its irresistible mix of ukulele and recorders. When Jarvis keeps the mood light, he writes the perfect summer soundtrack. Just watch out for the occasional curveball.