I just saw this guy live for the first time last night in New York City. Holy CRAP. I've loved his music for a few years now, and had seen a few live videos he posted on YouTube and stuff, but didn't realize what I was in for. He is amazing. Absolutely amazing.
http://www.myspace.com/randallshreve
Some of the songs are clearly definitely themed to fit the concept of the album (circus-y), so might not be so easy to get into for everyone. But listen to "The Entertainer" (the song), and try to tell me it's not heartbreakingly beautiful.
If you don't feel like dealing with MySpace, here's that track on last.fm (and another from the new album that I adore):
http://www.last.fm/music/Randall+Shreve/_/The+Entertainer
http://www.last.fm/music/Randall+Shreve/_/King+Of+The+Silver+Screen
And here's a bunch of great tracks from his first album (which was also a concept album... but focusing around a couple, so the actual tracks don't sound as themed):
http://www.last.fm/music/Randall+Shreve/_/The+Cure+For+Yesterday
http://www.last.fm/music/Randall+Shreve/_/Forever
http://www.last.fm/music/Randall+Shreve/_/The+Kiss
http://www.last.fm/music/Randall+Shreve/_/Pretend
http://www.last.fm/music/Randall+Shreve/_/Dancing+in+the+Rain
http://www.last.fm/music/Randall+Shreve/_/Prayer+From+the+Red+Light+District...
http://www.last.fm/music/Randall+Shreve/_/In+the+Air
I'd have more from the new album, but I've only had the chance to listen to it once since getting it last night at the show. Plus it's all on his MySpace, unlike the first album.
Anyway, on top of it, Randall's an absolute sweetheart (the moment I met him, he hugged me and told me he was glad I made it) and his girlfriend and friends are super nice and fun. Jessica knew I was there alone and took me under her wing and promised to introduce me to "everyone".
So yeah. Give him a listen! I'll be sad if this thread dies with no replies.