This five song EP sounds like a cross between Jack Johnson and Donovan Frankenreiter with its airy, summery, island flavorings. Bing Ji Ling has the pipes to deliver most of this radio-friendly and terribly sugary (sappy?) material such as “Kathalina” which seems perfect for a late evening patio party or part of a mix tape to take to the beach. The musician can pull off some funk and some grooves as well, which is always an added bonus. The title track is more of the same Jason Mraz-ish fodder, with the song leaning more towards a lights-dimming, romantic escapade complete with its cheesy organ accents. Probably the highlight of this roughly 20-minute collection is “Be Here With You” which straddles the line between folk and pop perfectly, even down to Bing Ji Ling’s pretty pipes that carries the song along. If you’re a fan of Maroon 5, or if your parents enjoy The Bees Gees, a song like “This Song Is For You” is definitely for you — or your parents.
Bing Ji Ling: June Degrees In December
Bing Ji Ling
To The Curb Productions
2008-03-04