The air last week was alight with the glow of the Strawberry Full Moon, and for music lovers, it brought with it the perfect soundtrack: “Moon Sabled Nights,” the evocative video companion to a standout single from Joe Atman’s highly anticipated debut album, It Took The Village.
Captured beautifully with a GoPro, this visual piece truly lets viewers “Be A Hero” alongside Atman’s soaring melodies.
Released by Sunset Recordings, It Took The Village introduces Joe Atman as a formidable new voice in the Adult Contemporary, AAA, and Singer-Songwriter landscape. His sound is deeply infused with soulful influences, immediately evident from the album’s opening track and one of its main singles, the solemn yet captivating “Arrest Me.” From this initial offering, Atman’s distinct and powerful vocals, coupled with his impeccable songwriting prowess, effortlessly guide listeners through all fifteen tracks, culminating in the poignant closer, “Story Of The Llama V (Outro).”
Every song on this full-length disc is a testament to top-tier artistry. The arrangements are meticulously crafted, supporting lyrical narratives that are both accessible and profoundly relatable. While “Arrest Me” sets a high bar, other key singles like “Moon-Sabled Nights,” “Cats,” and “Sunshine When It Rains” are poised to capture radio waves, with promotion kicking off this very week.
Atman’s piano work is a cornerstone of his sound, drawing comparisons to the likes of Ben Folds with its sophisticated yet expressive quality. On quirkier tunes such as “Johnny Johnny Red Bird,” his keyboard skills truly shine, forming the fundamental base upon which each track is built. This intricate piano foundation, combined with the rich harmonies provided by the Riohc Choir and Atman’s uniquely styled vocals, coalesce into an album that stands out as one of the best in its format in recent memory.
Produced by the talented Jon Crawford, It Took The Village is not only a showcase for its excellent production value but also a powerful display of Joe Atman’s innate talent as a songwriter. There’s a tangible sense that this album is deeply personal, telling a story close to the artist’s heart through its fifteen cohesive tracks. Slated to hit stores worldwide on December 11th, It Took The Village explores universal themes that resonate with everyone: the intricacies of love, the yearning for peace, the importance of self-expression, and the simple joy of living freely and easily.
While his debut release is perfect for any time of day, It Took The Village has quickly become a go-to for moments of relaxation and late-night contemplation by the fire. Atman’s ability to craft compelling narratives through song is further amplified by the album’s expansive, “bigger than life” production. Tracks like “Another Day” and “Know The Wind” exemplify this, featuring lyrics that are both inviting and arrangements that perfectly complement their message.
Joe Atman is unequivocally one of the most acclaimed new artists to emerge on the music scene in years, making a profound impact with just a single album. It Took The Village is an essential listen, a compelling blend of masterful production and deeply resonant songwriting that solidifies Atman’s place as a significant new voice. Tune in and discover why this debut is generating such excitement and is already defining moments for listeners on Sunset Recordings.