Everett Young took to music at a very young age; displaying a strong ear by 4 years old and pursuing classical piano lessons by age 6…. But something happened along the way.
“I didn’t practice very much and I didn’t learn to read music very well, even though my teacher pushed sight-reading and classical music,” explains Everett. “I just never caught the bug of wanting to become a great piano player. I played piano for years, but I never became a technically accomplished player. I think part of it was my psychological makeup and part of it was my teachers. It was more of an obligation to me, and I never had a teacher who was really inspirational.”
During college, Everett took up songwriting and decided to become a pop singer as a way to reel in the ladies. Attempting to take up guitar, he ended up putting it down two weeks later. Everett decided to rely on his piano skills for writing songs.
Releasing an album in his 30s, Everett was unable to promote it properly due to circumstances in his personal life. Eventually, Mr. Young allowed the dream to fade and earned a Ph.D. in political science.
But, if you are like Everett (or myself for that matter), you believe in second chances. You also believe it’s never too late to do what you love.
Fast forward (through life, love, marriage, and an academic career) to present day – Everett Young is back and better than ever on the Kicklighter album, The Fasicnating Thinking Machine.
Kicklighter (Everett’s stage name) is Young’s way of giving a second chance to his high school chorus director, Mr. Kickliter.
“Mr. Kickliter and I butted heads, but Ray Kickliter had a big influence on me and, essentially, taught me how to sing,” remembers Everett. “Originally, I didn’t name my band after him. But I eventually saw it was a really good name and fit the music I was making. And, because it is his name, it can also represent a reconciliation. Even though we didn’t get along, he’s part of who I am. Last I heard he has Alzheimer’s and can no longer speak and is not really mentally there anymore. So he will never know about this. I honestly don’t know if he’d be flattered or upset! But he can’t stop me.”
The Fasicnating Thinking Machine is an excellent compilation of well crafted songs that sound something like Tears for Fears, Elvis Costello, and Lloyd Cole. Kicklighter has a mature and polished sound that immediately grabs your attention.
If you are a fan of new wave, AAA, or adult contemporary; you will not be able to stop listening after you push play. This album is uplifting, catchy, and worthy of being added to your collection.
A few of my top song picks include: “Until You See The Sun”, “The Sultan of Brunei”, and “Building A Robot”.
You can stream The Fasicnating Thinking Machine from Kickligther’s website. You can also connect on Twitter or FB.
