The Holy City hosts U.S. debut of U.K. musician

Garfield Mayor makes his U.S. debut tonight, opening for David Ford at the Windjammer on the Isle of Palms.

He recently released his first effort exclusively on iTunes, with a CD release planned soon.

Mayor carries a lot of expectations, as he is the first act signed to R Tel Records. The label was founded by music industry leaders Rob Thomas of Matchbox 20 and EMI Publishing executive Evan Lambert, to provide a place for up-and-coming artists to develop with creative freedom and financial support without the pressure and spotlight of a major label.

Mayor worked closely with Rob Thomas at his home studio in New York during a month-long stay in 2007 and "couldn't imagine a better role model to be able to turn to in the inevitable moments of uncertainty I have to come," he said. Mayor said the largest disagreement was the name of one song, which they settled by including both titles. Mayor wrote, arranged and produced all of the songs on his debut. As he readies himself to tour, Mayor says that while quite excited, this is only the beginning of the journey and much harder work remains. This includes recently finishing his video for "Take & Take."

He recently got engaged to his long-time girlfriend, whom he describes as "my most vociferous muse to-date, and the subject of some of my best works yet." He related that the situation was not easy at times, as he composed songs not only of love, but also of despair. "Looking into her eyes as she listened to a song where I was displaying emotions of hurt and sometimes hate, just killed me inside given she is my best friend and partner."

With a rock sound mixed with some jazz flavors, Mayor's songs are traditional pop music. Though, in his words, "not the plastic disposable music it's become synonymous with."

Mayor's style resembles a combination of Simply Red, David Gray and Paul Simon, while his voice reminds one of '70s musician Al Stewart.

Mayor says his songs are "strewn with double-edged meanings, perhaps because I see them as being analogous to life whereby nothing is certain, nothing is cut-and-dry."

The lyrics on his first single "Take & Take" display emotions of disappointment as he falls short of his lover's expectations and tries to figure out just who he is and just how bewildering the experience is. Opposing ideas in the line "You've Been Breathing In, And Blowing Out For Me" relate to how confusing this and life can be and how apparent paradoxes seem almost commonplace when it comes down to human relationships.

Included in the songs are compositions of hope and trust. In the upbeat "Let Love Be Your Energy," Mayor sings of unknown adventure in life but that to trust him and live day by day. Likewise on "Future Versus History," Mayor picks up the pace and relates to look forward to opportunity to "the fresh breeze blowing in" and not backward at unpleasant experiences.

Sounds like exactly where Mayor is in his career and life.

Harris Cohen can be reached at hcohen@skivitch.com.