With enough exuberance to illuminate his native London, singer/songwriter Jack Peñate sounds as if he’d be overjoyed to lead a Hall & Oates cover band. However, the lad crafts his own radiant brand of pop: Don’t even try to resist “Run for Your Life” or “Second, Minute or Hour,” featuring the immortal rhyme “I act stupid / Due to Cupid.” Occasionally, you wish Peñate would just calm down already — even the ballads feel a little rushed — but his ordinarybloke vocals and eager hooks never fail to please. Note to Lily Allen: Please cover “Have I Been a Fool?” ASAP.
Now Hear This:Jack Peñate – “Second, Minute, or Hour” DOWNLOAD MP3