The question for stage and theater used to be, “Will it sell in Peoria?” The question for this Peoria-based singer/songwriter is – “Will someone from Peoria sell elsewhere?”

Micah Bentley’s The Height of the Fall 2008 features the title tune, a nice listening ballad that is, as advertised, pop singing at its height. But there is another question to be answered. Does Bentley separate himself, by playing and singing, or by songwriting, from all the above-average players and singers of this generation?

That remains to be seen, of course.

“Take It Slow” from the same new collection, picks up the pace somewhat, with some guitar growl and sharp rhythms. The variety seems to have attracted a nice number of fans and friends. But is it enough to sell outside of Peoria. Will they remember Micah Bentley after he leaves for the next venue? The guitar break in “Take It Slow” will certainly help. The lyrics and the implied searching in the story will help too.

From Bentley’s The Impossible 2006 EP comes “The Shore.” This too is a nice listening tune that grabs attention with some vocal passion. (Personal note: This might be the writer’s favorite among the sample tunes.) No tour information just yet.

Micah Bentley on MySpace

Tags: indie, indie music, independent music, music, Micah Bentley