George Ezra, “Gold Rush Kid.” It’s difficult not to feel a little optimism while listening to Gold Rush Kid, the third studio effort by George Ezra. The U.K. artist builds on his pop pedigree with an expansive and joyous sound that fuses eclectic and unexpected influences. Gold Rush Kid, his first…

George Ezra, “Staying At Tamara’s.” English singer-songwriter George Ezra proves he’s got more to him besides “Budapest” on his second album, Staying at Tamara’s. Following the release of his debut, Wanted on Voyage, in 2014, and three years on the road, Ezra spent last year in the studio. On the 11-track…

Some of MisterWives at Outside Lands 2015. I interviewed many talented musicians in 2015, so this list is not based on who gave me the best quotes or who is most-talented. This collection is based more on who I connected with the most and who I felt tried hardest…

George Ezra. Courtesy. George Ezra is a sightseer. If Ezra’s radio hit “Budapest” doesn’t give that away on its own, his debut album, Wanted On Voyage, also has a tune called “Barcelona.” The album was written following a train tour of Europe. George Ezra, Ruen Brothers 7 p.m., April…

Sam Smith performs at Bill Graham Civic Auditorium in San Francisco on Jan. 31, 2015. Roman Gokhman/STAFF. On first impression, this was a much more grandiose performance than I expected. Sam Smith now has a full backing band and singers, and an arena-level production. All of that contributed to…