Jason Choi is a good friend of mine. I’ve known him for several years; we’ve been involved in a lot of aspects of each other’s lives, even sharing a house for awhile. We hang out often. Jason is witty and fun, thoughtful, and easy-going all at once, someone who enriches the lives of those who know him. And, to top it all off, he’s an immensely talented musician.

Jason’s skillful songwriting sweetly mingles introspection and encouragement. His thoughtful, heartfelt lyrics seem drawn from a deep well. Jason has found something worth saying, and he sings it out with passion and steady conviction. His compassionate lines ring with the bittersweetness of the weight of a glory that could be ours, and the stumblings and shortfalls we experience as we wander in the shadow of it. As heady as that may sound, his songs flow easily; drawing repeat listeners to sing along.

He’s also a fluent multi-instrumentalist and skillful arranger. I’m always impressed as he sings and eloquently plays guitar (sometimes with bells on foot, tapping out an accompanying jangle), while his band furiously trades instruments to accomplish all the parts he’s written; then he follows this up by simultaneously playing drums and keys as his side project Kitty Party takes the next set. It’s no surprise that at one time or another nearly every band who knows him asks him to sit in for shows or recording sessions.

This marriage of talented writing, arranging, and performing make Jason Choi a high recommendation.

His current album, “Leave the Night Behind,” provides a great introduction to his music. You can give a listen on Jason’s Myspace page (www.myspace.com/jasonchoiandthesea) , and you can order the CD at www.myspace.com/teamgrizzly. You can also find out more at his official website, www.jasonchoi.com.