Lawrence, Kan., resident Jordan Geiger appears to be one particularly busy musician. Not only is he a part of the Missouri-based rock band Minus Story, but he also plays the trumpet in Shearwater. Recently, however, Geiger has stepped to center stage for a solo effort under the moniker Hospital Ships.
Released this week, Oh, Ramona is Hospital Ships' debut, and it's an intimate pop record driven by heartfelt vocals and lyrics: "Your voice so sweet / you sing me to sleep," Geiger croons on the gentle, horn-infused "Sink Your Teeth Into Me." He's speaking to a girl named Kimberly, but the words could well describe the touching tenor of his own voice. Other tracks, like the twinkling "Mockingbird," expand on Hospital Ships' quiet side, while "The Shots I Drank" layers piano, organ and percussion for a fuller sound that ventures into the most upbeat territory found on Oh, Ramona.
From start to finish, Oh, Ramona sounds personal and charming without diving into the saccharine. Even the most cynical of pop fans ought to find their hearts warmed here.
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