Casey Stratton Makes The Crossing

Like Tori Amos and Sarah McLachlan, whom he cites as influences, singer-songwriter-musician Casey Stratton tickles the ivories to deliver sophisticated, softer pop music that oozes appeal to queer audiences.

Depending on how hard you party, you may remember him, and his head of brilliant red hair, from early 2005, when a Junior Vasquez remix of his single, “House of Jupiter,” went to Number 1 on the Billboard Dance Chart and hung in the rankings for more than 20 weeks.

Of course, it wouldn’t have taken an astrologer to predict that kind of future for a song connected to Patrick Leonard, the daddy behind many Madonna smashes. Leonard produced Stratton’s debut album, Standing at the Edge, for Sony’s Odyssey label in 2004.

Even so, club life seemed more like a pleasant detour than a destination for music by Stratton, a 29-year-old Michigan native who is classically trained in composition and wields a supremely exceptional voice.

Happily for those of you who like things on the lighter side or for those who happen to be American history buffs, Stratton has made The Crossing, his eighth studio album and second independent release on his label, Sleeping Pill Music - he split with Sony after his first album.

The organic production yields a warm, clear feeling to 14 tracks that showcase his trademark soaring vocals, expert piano playing and intensely personal, but universal, lyrics. His superb melodies and complex arrangements are evident in the single, “You Showed Me Again” and in other standouts like “Rising Sun” and “Projector,” with its gothic-tinged piano and haunting mood.

Not unlike the attitude conveyed by George Washington in that famous oil painting, The Crossing demonstrates the maturity, confidence and wisdom of Stratton. His 2005 release, Divide, reflects his breakup with Sony and his thoughts on U.S. politics at the time. The Crossing now suggests a more hopeful spirit, one curiously in tune with the outlook at the Democratic National Committee these days.

Plans are underway for Stratton to tour this fall in support of the new album. Until then, The Crossing is available at his digital music store, among other sources.

Comments

[Andre Somma]

I absolutely adore Casey Stratton's music. My personal favorite album of Casey's is Divide but all of his music is amazing. He definitely deserves tons of recognition and success.

[Ryan]

Casey Stratton seems to only release music that comes from an honest place - a rarity in the industry today... and Sony's loss.

[amy]

I LOVE Casey and I'm glad to see that he's getting the attention he deserves! I just got The Crossing and I can't stop playing it! I highly recommend this talented boy!

[josh r]

I saw Casey play live in Chicago and was blown away. My friend became an instant fan and couldn't believe this guy wasn't famous yet. I still have to get Divide, but The Crossing has been on repeat since I got it.

[Michael]

I'm Casey's biggest fan. I tell everybody about his music.

[John]

This guy is amazing. I'm usually not a huge emo type, but Casey's music and lyrics cut to the bone. It gets under your skin.

[Katherine L.]

My girlfriend and I got hooked on Casey while in New York. Caught a show in the village and said 'who IS this guy?' We normally like singers like Sarah M and Tori, but Casey has joined those ranks and is one not to be missed. When is he playing again? Any chance of coming to Boston?

[Anne]

Great article!! The Crossing is a must have!

[Patrick]

wow...who is this guy? I checked out his site and thought 'now THAT'S a voice!' I prefer his real music over dance mixes. I will definitely download his music for my Mem Day roadtrip!

[Kyle&Mike]

I love seeing Casey on this site! It's about time! First heard about him from Darren Hayes (another great singer). Darren wrote about Casey in his blog. Now we're hooked!