Sure you could compare his sound to that of Ben Folds, Elliott Smith, or Nirvana, but each one of Mike Donahue’s songs has its own identity. And when you listen to his music, you are able to understand each individual song’s purpose, as well as who Donahue is as a person. In his songs, Donahue says things we’re all thinking — sometimes they’re biting, sometimes they’re heartfelt, but never bullshit. Mike Donahue is a versatile songwriter who is able to seamlessly transition from a soft, emotional, acoustic moment to an edgy, punk sound. Sometimes his music even has a jazzy touch that doesn’t feel a bit out of place. Donahue is even able to take the popular folk song formula and completely spin it on its head, while never sacrificing the melodic hook. His latest effort, Totally For Really, is a cohesive collection of songs that showcases him at his best. Complete with soaring background vocals, twinkly piano fills, and driving full band arrangements, it’s an album you won’t want to miss.