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The title of Benjamin Taylor’s latest album, “Legend of Kung Folk, Part 1 (The Killing Bite),” might be a little confusing,b ut what’s immediately clear when you listen to it, is Benjamin’s talent. His eclectic music is laced with sincere, witty, sometimes tongue-in-cheek lyrics, set against an acoustic-guitar backdrop. The combination is part folk, part rock and, as he would say, “the kick” of Kung.
His voice is one you won’t grow tired of — just like the voices of Benjamin’s famous parents, Carly Simon and James Taylor. Benjamin’s impressive heritage can be heard in his music, but he’s no copycat. As a singer-songwriter, he has his own updated sound, style and contribution to make. After traveling the world and training in martial arts, he says “Kung Folk” reflects his personal, hybridized style. There’s both humor and honesty in his single “Wicked Way,” for example, which has been buzzed about since Benjamin’s lusty new video for the song was released this summer.
The “Kung Folk” album was released by Iris Records, a label Benjamin started with session drummer Larry Cianci that puts him at the helm of artistic navigation. His upbeat music and smart lyrics are refreshingly different — and well worth adding to your playlist.
— Christopher