Best of NYC #35: Benji Cossa

A solo artist, Benji Cossa, started writing music as a sophomore in college during the mid-nineties. His diverse discography includes recent album, “Benji Cossa’s Vault Vol. 2: Jewels and Gems” among four others. His music ranges from 70s style country to folk rock and is typically accompanied by his distinct twangy crooning. Benji has a relaxed carefree style and creates serene music that sometimes possesses a slightly sorrowful and blues-inspired sound. “Indian Princess” is truly a gem with the melodic strumming of his acoustic guitar. No two songs are the same because he uses a diverse set of instruments ranging from the piano on “With All My Luck” to the saxophone on “Stoke It.” His vocals are sometimes soft and smooth but depending on the mood of the song, Benji’s voice is capable of a raspier sound. As a seasoned musician who’s toured throughout the country, Benji’s sound and style evolves but never ages. - Stephanie Freitag