If you venture over to Grieves a.k.a. Benjamin Laub's site there is a really lovely write up on him:
Grieves writes is often riddled with heartbreak, pain and brutal self-truths, he’s not all gloom and doom. Grieves says that song writing is a process for him to deal with the problems and harmful events of his life, so most of what hits the paper is a way for him to recognize and cope with those feelings so that he doesn’t have to shoulder that burden time and again in his day to day life. Consequently, Grieves live show is one of the most captivating and energetic performances in hip hop – utilizing multiple instruments on stage and an excellent blend of high energy with skill and humor to create an enjoyable and memorable experience for the fans.
Sounds rather deep for a kid from Chicago. A white boy rapper with a heart of gold and a great sense of humor. On tour now and we at rocknyc are eagerly awaiting his arrival in Hartford CT to check him out.
Melodic story telling from such a young face. There must be some history there. The video below for "Boogie Man", describes fear so eloquently that I cant help wondering what has scared Grieves so deeply that he can convey his message like this. Brilliantly done.
We will take an opportunity to speak with Laub next Tuesday night, and find out what makes his creativity flow. Until then- Catch him in New York on Dec 1 at The Studio @ Webster Hall or join us Tuesday December 6th at Hartfords Arch St. Tavern.