Summer Fiction is a winter reality. It’s the project of Philadelphia singer/songwriter Bill Ricchini. He released his self titled debut album on December 1st. It was refreshing to find a record that had almost no hype, and to fall in love with it almost immediately.
Right away the album hooks you in with warm written songs that are equally smart and addictive. They were mostly written in his apartment, giving them a close to home approach that works all too well.
The bouncy pop of “Chandeliers” will play around in your head like a carousel. It sounds too good to be a song from 2010. Rather it screams 1960. It’s laid back too cool for school approach is half of the charm. The other half is just fantastic writing.
For me, the true standout from the album comes from “Throw Your Arms Around Me”. It’s one of those songs that is so good, it seems instantly familiar to you. It’s like it was always in your head, it was just waiting for you.
Immediately after my first listen to it, I hit replay for a good hour or so. His voice will reel you in like magic, sounding more honest that anything else. The lyrics speak of a man hurt by love. He wants this girl, but she keeps going back to some other guy, and there’s nothing he can do but wish she was throwing her arms over him. This longing for a warm embrace drips from the song, creating a song that may break your heart, while simultaneously making you feel warm inside.
Easily one of the best moments of 2010.
At some points I hear traces of bands like The Smiths, The Decemberists, and Belle & Sebastian. With that said, Summer Fiction is an endearing new project that deserves more attention. Most people made their best of 2010 lists prior to the albums release, and it’s a damn shame. This is one of the biggest surprises of 2010, and surely something your going to see on mine.
[mp3]: Summer Fiction – Chandeliers
[stream]: Summer Fiction – Throw Your Arms Around Me:
Summer Fiction – Throw Your Arms Around Me by weallwantsome1
I highly recommend this album. You can sang it at bandcamp, itunes, or here if you want a physical copy. You can even stream the entire album below:
Stephanos — 22 Dec 10
This is why I follow your blog. Thank you.
Will — 22 Dec 10
My pleasure. Glad you like!
Mirage — 22 Dec 10
This was ridiculously great. Thanks so much. Great Find! Took 1 listen and got the album
Garrett — 22 Dec 10
I’ve always loved Bill Ricchini but had no idea about Summer Fiction. Thank you so much for sharing. I agree with the first post. This kind of thing is the reason I visit your blog all the time.
Mr. Shuffleupagus — 21 Jan 11
“Screw Quantum Mechanics: Summer Fiction is Timeless”:
http://mrshuffleupagus.blogspot.com/2011/01/screw-quantum-mechanics-summer-fiction.html