A workingman’s musician with a thorough grasp of his craft, Ted Russell Kamp comes into his own as a solo artist and songwriter of note with 'Poor Man’s Paradise', slated for U.S. release in February on Kamp’s Poetry of the Moment label (PoMo) and European release November 25, 2008, with distribution in those territories through Dualtone (and Proper UK in Britain and Northern Ireland). It follows on the heels of Kamp’s most recent CD, the widely praised 'Divisadero', which was named one of the Top 40 Americana releases of 2007 and which No Depression called “…terrific.”
'Poor Man’s Paradise' is a juicy gumbo of country, Southern-fried rock and soul in the style of Kamp’s lifelong inspirations J.J. Cale, The Band, and Kris Kristofferson. Kamp wrote or co-wrote all 11 songs, with a storyteller’s flair for offbeat characters, interesting turns of phrase and a sense of realism that sometimes belies an uncommon circumstance. The lead track, the anthemic “Just a Yesterday Away,” sets the tone, followed by the Jerry Reed-style “Just Go South.” The disc is full of detailed story songs such as the humorous “Ballad of That Guy,” the waltzing “Player Piano” and the heartbreaking, melodic weeper “Let Love Do the Rest.”
A roots-savvy crew of pals recorded basic tracks with Kamp in Los Angeles, including guitarists Tony Gilkyson and Kenny Vaughan, drummer Don Heffington, Marvin Etzioni on mandolin, Waylon Jennings/Highwaymen pedal steel player Robbie Turner, and Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash front-man Mark Stuart. Kamp’s own instrumental prowess is heard on guitar, mandolin, bass, keyboards, lap steel, accordion, trombone and trumpet. “Music is a language,” he points out, “and each instrument helps you speak it a little differently.”
Kamp discovered rich source material in his travels as longtime bassist for Shooter Jennings, with whom he tours regularly. Colorful regional colloquialisms overheard at truck stops and biker festivals pop up in revealing couplets, while fans, musicians, waitresses, desk clerks and others he’s encountered along the road inspire characters like the nostalgic bartender in “Player Piano” and the “poor man” of the title track (co-written with Grammy-winner Chris Tompkins), looking for paradise in the arms of a wayward lover.
“We all go through similar things in life,” he muses. “That’s one of the reasons I relate to songwriting: telling these stories can be very personal and very universal at the same time.”
Kamp got into music as a shy child in a very vocal and expressive family in New York, which honed the observational gifts that sharpen his songs. He’s since become a confident entertainer on stage, but he feels most connected with the “solitary, slow process” of songwriting. He worked on the tracks for Poor Man’s Paradise on his computer in hotel rooms across the country between and after gigs on the road and likens the collection to an intimate journal.
“I know I need to find a way to make it through all my tomorrows/ So when I need the strength I say you’re just a yesterday away,” he sings on the first single, the choogling “Just a Yesterday Away.” That lyric to a lost lover, like most of Kamp’s new songs, reveals more than one meaning; as much as it references the sentiments of the past, it also conveys his innate hopefulness and connection to the artists whose “intensity and heart” remain a vital creative wellspring for him. “I’m influenced by the ‘60s and ‘70s,” he acknowledges. “That’s an era I always come back to when I’m looking for inspiration.”
Those influences are richly evident in the funky grooves of songs like the double entendre-laden “Long Distance Man,” the New Orleans-flavored “Old Folks Blues,” and the road-trip anthem “Just Go South,” which takes a loving page from the Leon Russell playbook on how to “tell a story and be honest but still be funky and groovy at the same time.” The late Charlie Rich would likely appreciate the elegant piano, and the taut mix of heartbreak and humor, in “Dixie,” co-written with Kamp’s Nashville buddy Trent Summar. With its tongue-in-cheek lyrics (“The thrills are getting cheaper and the hills are getting steeper/ But this high life is my life and I think it’s a keeper”) and instrumentation (banjo, Dobro, horns and a Hammond organ solo “that takes you to church a little bit”), Kamp says “Old Folks Blues” has “as much to do with Little Feat as it does with Rev. Gary Davis, and the talking-blues tunes of early Bob Dylan.
“The sincerity, the old-school feel of it, music that’s new and rootsy at the same time — for me, that’s what Americana stands for. I alternate between serious songs and lighthearted songs, so you can listen to the album like you'd follow a good conversation or a movie. I wanted each song on this album to go to a different place lyrically and musically and hopefully listeners will enjoy that journey.”
"Poor Mans Paradise" available here.
Terrible Lizard
After a decade of playing guitar in Chicago blues bands and the California rock scene traversing diverse musical landscapes as Chris Winters, “Chili” came forth and burst onto the scene, and Terrible Lizard was born.
The music, based on the musings and secret rock ‘n’ roll longings of an incurable rocker split the seams of the poor wretch and spewed forth such a smattering of rock ‘n’ roll juice and vibe that a remedy was sought. Chili contacted a familiar cohort, “the Kid” (Stephen Howard).
The Kid, like Chili, shared a penchant for the rocking ethos and for an excess of abandonment to the moment. When asked by Chili if he would collaborate with him on his latest heartfelt tangent, the Kid answered with a yes that resounded and echoed throughout that very room. A third conspirator was sought.
Ryan was immediately suggested as he and the Kid had been in the same band for quite some time and had established there a strong musical kinship. Chili had also played with Ryan on separate occasions and had developed an appreciation for his drumming and musical sensibilities. Ryan accepted the invitation and rehearsals and recording followed.
www.terriblelizardband.com
www.cdbaby.com/cd/terriblelizard
Terry Garland & Li'l Ronnie
Blues-masters Terry Garland and Li’l Ronnie have been performing as a duo since December 31st, 2009. Although they had performed together in the past, this time it really clicked. Their electrifying sound mesmerizes the listener. Both Terry & Ronnie have long distinguished recording careers, as they are both vocalists, songwriters and interpreters their repertoire is varied, exciting and spontaneous.
Terry Garland is known internationally as a master slide and acoustic guitarist. Terry performs worldwide and has performed at top blues festivals across the globe. The artist’s impassioned songs, rare musical insight and depth, make him one of the most innovative and praised contemporary blues and roots musicians today. Terry’s meticulous finger-picking and driving percussive foot-stomping unite with his vocal prowess to create an evocative, engaging transformation. Born in Johnson City, TN, Terry’s musical roots were pioneered by forefathers of the blues. During his youth, he studied the sounds of Robert Johnson, Jimmy Reed, Blind Willie McTell, Howling’ Wolf and Lightning Hopkins, who inspired him to follow his calling. These pioneers played the blues on guitar or piano, they were the music. Just a voice and an instrument.
Harpist, singer-songwriter and Hohner Harmonica endorsee Ronnie Owens has been performing since the 60’s and has been fronting his own bands for over 25 years. Ronnie and band have performed at top music festivals and venues including a headlining performance at the prestigious Lincoln Center. They have also played with and opened shows for some of the biggest names in the blues-rock world.
Terry and Ronnie recently recorded an electrifying live CD, "Live At The Canal Club", with a planned release date of February, 2011. Terry and Ronnie are very excited about their new musical partnership.
www.ellersoulrecords.com
www.terrygarland.com
www.lilronnie.com
Tim Bragg
"Songs for the new album "Stranger Through The Window" came together in France during July and August 2009. The title track was written in Arcachon while staying with a friend. One of the few times during that hot summer – it rained - In fact, it deluged! Watching the rain through the window I also became aware of the house that borders my friend’s garden. She told me something of its history and I wrote: 'Stranger Through the Window'. This track is one of two “narrative” songs on the album – Both drawing from real life. The other, 'The Montbron Girl' is a tragic tale based on true, compelling events - Though both have been 'romanticised'.
There is a bitter-sweet feeling to the album; 'On the Radio' states – 'It couldn’t have been mine playing on the radio/They don’t know me on that kind of show' – 'Chasing Down Dreams' states – 'All this time wasted it’s true/Chasing down dreams that could never come true' – And yet songs from 'Waiting for the Light' (2009) were played on the radio and distant dreams have never seemed closer! 'Where is the Fighter?' - A song for and about Phil Lynott appeared on the EP: 'Where is the Fighter – Songs for Phil Lynott 2009', but has been re-mixed and re-mastered. There’s a country-rock sound to more of the tracks too – especially 'Night is Fallin' and 'Some Answers'. The addition of violin (courtesy of Toby Hill) adds to the country and folk feel that compliments the rockier tracks.
I was also lucky enough getting James Vargas to put down saxophone on a couple of tunes – Including the title track. James is making a real name for himself and is an ‘in demand’ sax player. As on 'Waiting for the Light' Jules Reason displays his excellent guitar, but I also hooked up with some players from way, way back: Gerald Maguire, John Loasby and Adam Beetlestone on electric guitars. The acclaimed American blues guitarist Leburn Maddox also puts in a re-appearance for this album as does Phil Knight, with some sensitive playing. Perry James adds his country feel and Gordon Woodcock supplies some tasteful harmonica. As ever I play my usual range of instruments – Even some lead acoustic guitar on this album!
There’s a real range of genres expressed through the fourteen tracks. This album is both melancholic and optimistic at times – From 'Icy Winter' to 'Sunrise' and 'Summer'.
Recording the album took shape from September 2009 through to April 2010 – I even managed to break my foot in October – Hence the different approach to the drumming in 'Can’t Run Away'!
'Stranger' was mastered by Chris Hardcastle of Arena Sound & Vision."
New album available here.
Tim Steward
Tim is better known as the frontman for Brisbane’s Screamfeeder. The band has been around for over 10 years and have established a dedicated international fan-base.
Somewhere along the line Tim realised he had too many songs in his head for the band alone and he started recording them at home. He then started hiring studios and producers and doing it all properly. It took 5 years of working in between other projects to bring the album to completion, and of course new songs were added along the way.
The album is varied - some of the songs feature piano and strings, some are acoustic guitar or keyboard based and a couple rock out. All are driven by lyrics and melody and Tim’s unique vocal delivery.
The album represents the cream of a 10 year writing period, recorded by the country’s greats; Wayne Connolly, Magoo, Matt Maddock and Bryce Moorhead.
Tim performs live in various modes; completely intimate and solo, duo, small band and big band – numbering up to 10 people on stage, including 3 backup singers.
www.tsteward.com
www.myspace.com/timsteward
www.screamfeeder.com
www.myspace.com/screamfeederrock
Toby
Energetic. Raw. Feisty.
These three words tell you everything you need to know about Australian roots artist Toby on stage.
Toby is a stand-out performer - and this is why she is making her mark touring the world - with seven Canadian tours up her sleeve, she also tours throughout Europe, America and Australia playing major festivals, and performing her own headlining shows.
For an audience, these live shows are a deeply emotional and joyous experience. For Toby, she wears her emotions, thoughts and adventures on her sleeve, as clearly as the delighted smile she sports while playing. It's that chemistry and connection – in between plenty of dancing and jumping from both sides – that makes each performance so strikingly unique and deliciously unpredictable.
Passionate and known for her unwavering commitment to her craft Toby is willing to take the risk and be vulnerable with her thoughts and emotions committed to song.
Perth born Toby’s new album "Sleeptalk" is the album you should be listening to. Why?
This album was recorded in San Francisco, CA, where Toby worked with co-producer Carey Williams. They met when TOBY played alongside Etta James (managed by Carey) at a festival in Milwaukee in 2009.
This is TOBY’s 4th full-length album and is the culmination of years of touring endlessly throughout Australia, four tours of Europe, eight tours of Canada and memorable performances in the USA.
This album showcases Toby’s insightful, honest and poignant songwriting. It’s an invitation to explore her mind and her soul. This critique of the human condition is both personal and broad. It has captured Toby’s best songs to date - with a full mature sound, and an incredible line up of musicians. It tells stories across emotions and continents, yet never loses track of it's Australian roots, giving it a sense of place and time.
But best of all, it is simply full of great songs that people want to hear.
Toby’s songwriting skills are honed enough to make her radio-friendly, and her voice is naturally soulful, earthy and dynamic enough to appeal to all kinds of music fans. The songs themselves have some seriously infectious hooks and draws in European flavours, some gutsy blues, slow, chilled out reggae and some soulful acoustic ballads.
Half of “Sleeptalk” was recorded at Decibelle Recording in San Fransisco with JJ Wiesler, and the other half in Berkely at San Pablo Recorder with Jon Evans. One track was recorded at Couch Studio with Shaun O'Callaghan, North Fremantle, WA (John Butler Trio).
Carey Williams put together an amazing team of musicians to record the album. Jon Evans played bass on several tracks. Jon has toured and performed with Tori Amos for twelve years. He has also worked with Linda Perry and Paula Cole. Other musicians include Dawn Richardson on drums (4 Non Blondes, Tracy Chapman), Julie Wolf (Ani Difranco, Indigo Girls, Maceo Parker), David Matthews (Etta James), Claytoven Richardson on backing vocals (Kenny G, Michael Bolton, Elton John, Peabo Bryson), Sakai (live performances with Quincy Jones, Stevie Wonder, Chaka Khan) and Marcie Brown
Toby has pulled together experiences from travelling the world, performing her music. She has supported the likes of Sheryl Crow, John Mellencamp, Paul Kelly, John Butler Trio, Brandy, Indigo Girls, Gomez, Donavon Frankenreiter, Luka Bloom and Pete Murray.
By not deviating from her fiercely independent origins, Toby keeps this album real and untamed as she criss-crosses the globe connecting with audiences, injecting them with the passion she feels for music and turning each performance into a memorable party.
www.tobymusic.com.au
www.myspace.com/tobybeard
www.youtube.com/tobybeard
Tokyo Rosenthal
“Rosenthal can draw you into his lyrics much the same way that James Taylor and Don Henley can”.
“Take Jackson Brownes’ personal confessions and wrap them in Kris Kristofferson’s world weary tales of broken relationships and you have an idea of what to expect from Tokyo Rosenthal.”
“This is Americana with real teeth in the lyrics”
This and more is what the critics are saying about Tokyo Rosenthal. But it wasn’t an overnight trip. Hardly, as "Toke" has spanned the music scene for three decades. But it was in 2007 when recognition finally reached him through the recording of his CD, "One Score And Ten".
The song "Edmonton" off this album led to Rosenthal receiving the key to the city of Edmonton as an award for cultural and artistic contributions to Alberta’s capitol city. This also led to a month long tour of Canada sponsored by West Jet Airlines, TV and Radio appearances, and an opening slot for several nights in Toronto for Rock n Roll Hall of Famer and former Byrd and Burrito Brother Chris Hillman. Toke was personally picked by Chris to share the bill. He has also opened for the likes of America, Stephen Stills, Rick Roberts, Josh Williams, Jackie Leven, and Come On In My Kitchen, in addition to headlining shows. His recent festival work includes The Edmonton Fringe Festival, The Carrboro Music Festival, Tyler’s Americana Festival, SXSW, and the World Music United Festival.
In a career that started with the country rock boom, Rosenthal has honed his craft and "rootsy/ Americana with a little blues thrown in" sound to perfection. His recent move to Chapel Hill, North Carolina has allowed him to team up with famed producer and recording star Chris Stamey (the dB's) in the studio.
But prior to that Rosenthal made his reputation while living in Rhode Island, New York, and Los Angeles. He headed such groups as the legendary Harpo and Slapshot and Treo Gato as well as his solo endeavors. This has helped him receive radio airplay in the U.S. as well as Canada and radio stations in the UK and Europe are spinning Tokyo now as well.
While content to let the critics compare his style to others Tokyo doesn’t hesitate to point out his influences, who include The Band, The Byrds, The Indigo Girls, Gene Clark, Emmylou Harris, and believe it or not, Janis Joplin.
In 2008 Rosenthal released a new CD entitled "Love Won Out", that featured the single "St Patrick’s Day", to critical acclaim. This CD broke into the charts reaching #11 on the Euro Americana Chart, #14 on the Far Chart and #10 on the North Carolina Roots chart. He completed a Northeast US tour in March and a UK tour in April of that year. In August of that year he toured Japan and debuted in The Netherlands in October. In November Toke was back in New York City followed by Woodstock and Boston and then made a "Heartland" tour from North Carolina to Texas and back, headlining along the way at the World Music United Festival in San Marcos.
He began 2009 with the release of the timely and moving single, "Mister Tell Me ‘Bout The Great Depression". Then he returned to Holland and Scotland for two weeks in February for a radio concert tour. This was followed by Germany in the spring and another tour of the UK in the fall. And of course he played all over North Carolina while recording his next album, “Ghosts”, that was released in January 2010. His most successful release to date, "Ghosts", reached #5 on the Euro Americana Chart and the critical acclaim and US airplay was overwhelming. "Toke" then once again toured the Northeast U.S. with the highlight being his headlining at the world famous Bitter End in New York City. Toke then completed "UK Tour IV" and extensively toured the US for the balance of 2010.
So where is Tokyo Rosenthal in 2011. He began the year with a West Coast tour including his first live gig in Los Angeles in over ten years. That was followed by SXSW in Austin ,Texas along with other Texas dates. But the much anticipated release of his fourth studio album, "Who Was That Man?", will happen on May 1st, 2011. Joined once again by Chris Stamey on bass and production, Tokyo's new tunes will grab Americana fans the world over.
Always writing and always gigging, his musical journey continues.
www.tokyorosenthal.com
www.myspace.com/tokyorosenthal
Tom Corbett
Widely respected mandolinist/guitarist Tom Corbett’s third album, 'Tonight I Ride', is a colorfully musical pastiche of open-hearted stories and fond snapshots of the American West.
Highly regarded by peers for his skill at crafting parts that flesh out songs without flash or ego, Corbett’s soulful fretwork is supported by some of the West Coast’s finest acoustic artists, including bluegrass legends Herb Pedersen and Bill Bryson, Los Lobos percussionist Victor Besetti, guitar goddess Nina Gerber, renowned singer-songwriter Claire Holley, vocalist extraordinaire Jonathan McEuen, bassist Randy Tico and acoustic blues duo Tom Ball & Kenny Sultan.
The album came together once Corbett realized he was writing songs “with a Western bent.” The melodic title track’s key line — “I may never have touched the ground of freedom but tonight I ride” — was inspired by a trip to the Checkpoint Charlie Museum in Berlin, of all places, while “17 Miles A Day” looks at Western pioneers’ race against time and winter snows. “Welcome to Tom’s Place” celebrates the simple pleasures of fishing and friendship with some gleeful picking by Corbett and a posse of fellow Toms (Ball, Lackner, Lee, Rozum and Sauber), and the carefree birthday polka “Doce de Mayo” provides all the excuse needed for Corbett to jam with Los Lobos percussionist Victor Bessetti and Conjunto Los Pochos accordionist Otono Lujan and guitarron player Lorenzo Martinez.
“Ease On Down The River,” previously heard on the 1994 album 'The Cat’s Meow' by the Acousticats, the critically acclaimed folk-bluegrass-swing ensemble Corbett played with in the 90's, reunites him with a pair of longtime friends and musical heroes. “To redo ‘Ease On Down The River,’ with Herb Pedersen and Bill Bryson singing harmony, felt really good”, he says. “I’m really happy with the whole album.”
'Tonight I Ride', which follows 2001’s 'Upstairs At Charlie’s' and 2004’s 'Cloudless Blue Sky', is a crisply produced showcase for Corbett’s wit, warmth and creative versatility. It also shows him settled into a more peaceful phase of his life, sizing up the past and savoring the present. It’s another admirable achievement on his noteworthy resume. Long an active member of LA’s acoustic music scene, Corbett has toured with folk duo Robin & Linda Williams and Nitty Gritty Dirt Band multi-instrumentalist John McEuen, recorded several tracks on Social Distortion frontman Mike Ness’ rootsy solo album 'Cheating At Solitaire', and joined McEuen, Jimmy Ibbotson, Jennifer Warnes and Laurie Lewis in the award-winning 2002 DVD 'Nitty Gritty Surround'. More recently he taught Tom Selleck how to play ukulele for a role, and provided music for the Ted Haggard-themed play 'This Beautiful City' at Centre Theatre Group in Los Angeles. He just played a string of European dates and is currently booking dates for a U.S. tour.
www.tomcorbett.net
www.myspace.com/tomcorbettnet
Tom Dean
Rex Fowler and Tom Dean emerged as prominent folk-rock artists in the 70's. Rex’s band, Aztec Two Step, burst upon the scene with their self-titled debut album on Elektra Records in 1972. This, and their three subsequent albums on RCA Records, were staples of college and progressive FM radio and helped usher the music of the 60's into the 70's and beyond.
Tom Dean and Alana MacDonald's band Devonsquare was signed by Ahmet Ertegun, the legendary chairman of Atlantic Records, after hearing Dean’s "Walking On Ice" from their self-released album of the same name. Devonsquare went on to record another CD for Atlantic titled "Bye Bye Route 66", which spawned several critically acclaimed singles including "If You Could See Me Now", featuring Alana's powerful vocal performance.
Collectively they have toured worldwide, been reviewed in Rolling Stone, performed on David Letterman and shared stages with such musical luminaries as Bruce Springsteen, Bonnie Raitt and The Band, and continue to distinguish themselves as esteemed song-writers, performers and recording artists in the venerated genre of folk-rock music.
Along with several prominent studio musicians, Rex and Tom have teamed up in this labor of love to celebrate the genius and artistry of John Lennon. As a gift to John for his 70th birthday on October 9, 2010, they have re-imagined exquisite acoustic renditions of Lennon’s legendary Beatles songs. Besides a smattering of tasteful percussion, Rex and Tom’s distinctive acoustic guitar and vocal stylings and the beautiful voice of Alana MacDonald, featured instrumentation include cello, violin, mandolin, mandola, bass, slide guitar, accordion and chromatic harmonica.
Happy Birthday John!
www.devonsquare.com
www.tomdeansongs.com
www.johnlennonsongproject.com
Tom Freund
Tom Freund, the critically hailed singer/songwriter who often accompanies himself on standup bass as well as guitar and piano, has completed his fourth, full album titled "Collapsible Plans", set for a September release on his own indie imprint Surf Road Records.
Produced by Ben Harper, the album also features guest appearances by Jackson Browne.
New York City native Freund now hangs his hat in Venice, California. When he first moved out to Southern California in the early ‘90s, he formed a duo with Ben Harper, which resulted in an album entitled 'Pleasure And Pain'. Freund spent the mid-‘90s touring with the indie rock cult faves The Silos. In 1998, he released his debut album 'North American Long Weekend' on Red Ant label. The record received an avalanche of critical accolades, most notably in The New York Times in which Ann Powers called it an “unexpected gem” and ranked it #3 in her year-end best-of poll.
2001’s 'Sympatico' drew even more raves. No Depression proclaimed that Freund’s lyrics “capture slices of Americana in a way that many attempt, yet very few actually master,“ while All Music Guide, called it “truly unique and absolutely brilliant.” Freund also is a favorite of NPR’s “Weekend Edition” and has been championed by Los Angeles’ powerful KCRW-FM, where he has performed live on “Morning Becomes Eclectic.”
The Washington Post, listening to the third CD 'Copper Moon', wrote: “Freund clearly delights in enigma. His vocals could go from laconic to impassioned without such obvious trickery as cranking up the volume. His lyrics are full of curveballs.”
Freund is highly respected by his fellow musicians as well. Folk chanteuse Victoria Williams calls Freund’s 2000 disc 'L.A. Fundamental Music' (a soundtrack-oriented EP) “a classic.”
Graham Parker added: “"Listening to 'Sympatico', Tom Freund's second solo release, I find myself just as impressed as I was after hearing 'North American Long Weekend', his solo debut. His songs fill me with an interesting mixture of yearning and melancholy that is somehow thoroughly uplifting at the same time. I get shivers down my spine on almost every tune. Along with Lucinda Williams, Freund is the best singer/songwriter operating today."
"Collapsible Plans" available here.
Tómas Alexander
Showcasing his talent in 2006, Erik Williams joined the roster to tickle the 88 ivories at Edmonton’s premier dueling piano bar The Ivory Club and Ebony Grille. Now dueling on Friday’s and Saturday’s at Overtime Broiler Tap Room in Sherwood Park, AB, Erik has set out to contribute his own musical masterpiece.
Born into a musical family, the talented singer-songwriter-pianist has always had a keen ear for melody. “Music has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember”, says Williams. “My interest soon developed into a passion and at age 18 I decided to teach myself piano”.
Natural musical instincts coupled with raw talent aided in his ability to pick-up and finesse the piano quickly. By age 20, after only playing for 2 years, Williams had accomplished grade six level Royal Conservatory.
“I always knew that I wanted to perform. When I started working on “Dark Matter” a couple of years ago, I knew this is what I wanted to do. Music is natural to me, it’s a part of how I live, move and breathe, and I wanted to create something that is me — something that shows this other side of me — beyond the dueling pianos”.
Produced by Stew Kirkwood of Sound Extractor Studios, “Dark Matter” is a compilation of unconventional musical elements and unique sounds that present an exciting listening experience. Williams explains, “This album is a representation of who I am and the things I’ve seen. The songs feature random household objects (a leather couch, an IKEA lamp, toilet plunger etc.) sampled to create unique composite sounds combined with layers of electronic instruments”.
The album is a symbol of Williams alter ego — Tómas Alexander. His captivating Jekyll and Hyde musical styles allow him to do what he loves — perform. Williams says, “I’m the same person albeit my solo music style is very different to my dueling piano style”. He enjoys taking the stage at Overtime to duel fan favourites, and by the look on his face is clearly excited to present his first solo work of art.
Tomás Kocko & Orchestr
Peculiar songster, singer, composer and speculator in area of traditional Moravian and Slavonic artistic creation, history and religion.
Their music is full of stories and interesting traditions, but the most important quality is their strong ability to attract people to themselves.
Even though they play only acoustic instruments, you can be sure, that rock or metal audience will love them!
Tomáš Kocko & Orchestr belong to the top of the middle-east European worldmusic and especially in the Czech Republic.
They have been nominated 3 times for the award ANDEL (the Czech version of Grammy) and they won it in 2006, in category "worldmusic".
Their new album “Godula” will be released in the summer of 2011.
Their music is played on acoustic instruments - guitars, violin, cimbalom and recorders as well as percussions and traditional folk instruments. It sounds straightly and it has expressive strains and rhytmical background with elements of rock, metal, folk music and jazz.
They appear in all significant festivals of the Czech Republic and worldmusic festivals like were Europian Broadcasting Union Folk Festival in Cork (IR), Nowa Tradycja (PL), Le Village Européen Des Nouvelles Musiques Traditionnelles (FR), Ethnosfera (PL), Viljandi Folk Festival (Estonia), Eger (Hungary), Halkaer (Denmark), Harvest (Russia) and they do plan an American tour for next season.
Tommy Rickard
Drummer and singer-songwriter Tommy Rickard spent 2008 and 2009 in the studio, recording the tracks for his debut album “Dream California”. This record is a melting pot of the music Rickard grew up on. The reverb drenched guitars of California’s surf scene with a raw and honest voice, reminiscent of Johnny Cash. The vocal harmonies of the Beach Boys and laid back feel of the Eagles, with an occasional hint of the punk scene where his musical journey began. The live shows are equal parts all of this with Rickard fronting the band, singing while standing and playing drums. He’s backed by 2 guitars, bass and a female background singer. At times there could be a pedal steel player or possibly someone playing Hammond organ, or even an accordion player. Every show’s different. Every night a new canvas.
Rickard grew up in Northern California on the Russian River and in Santa Rosa. In early childhood he spent many nights singing along with his Italian Grandfather Dominic to Johnny Cash and George Jones songs. As a pre-teen he cut class to air drum along with his mom’s Beach Boys, Elvis, and Beatles records. It all took a turn when, at 13, he got his first drum kit. His first gig followed just months after at a punk festival. Rickard spent his teenage years drumming in the punk band The 4xLoozers and opening for punk legends like Black Flag, Agent Orange, Victims Family, and Sea Hags.
As soon as high school graduation hit he hightailed it down to San Francisco where he met singer Davy Vain. Together they formed the glam rock band Vain. Within a year, they were headlining and selling out clubs all over the Bay Area. Vain were soon signed to Island Records and started working on what would become a sleaze rock classic called “No Respect.” Rickard toured with Vain around the world from 1988 through 1992, opening for Guns & Roses, Poison, and Skid Row. Lemmy of Motorhead jammed with them at the Hammersmith Odeon, the final show of Vain’s sold out UK tour.
The down time after 4 years of touring gave Rickard the chance to reconnect with the SF music scene where he started a new band called Loaded. Their trashy, brit-pop sound garnered them extensive California tours and an EP named “TV Star”, released by Crush Records. When not on the road, Rickard began studies with Bay Area drum legend, Chuck Brown. At this time Rickard also did a short stint with San Francisco punk-metal heroes, The Clarke Nova. They recorded an EP and a full length record for Frank Kozik’s, Man’s Ruin label.
In 1997 Tommy joined up with singer/songwriter Michelle Muldrow to form the alternative country band BloodRoses. After two independent record releases the band drifted off to different states and different callings. Rickard moved on to local power-pop quartet, Blue Sky Roadster. B.S.R. released two records “Julio’s Dream” and “Rollercoaster Goodbye”, both of which received critical acclaim. The band then licensed songs to MTV, VH1, the NFL and a few independent films. B.S.R. renamed themselves Single and released “Welcome Nada” and continued to license songs to MTV and VH1.
It was around this time that Rickard began working with Linda Perry, playing drums on her songwriting demos as well as performing with her live, playing in her jaw dropping tribute to Led Zeppelin. In studio Rickard recorded the Grammy single “Beautiful” (Christina Aguilara). Rickard would continue to work with Perry on her solo records and side projects such as Courtney Love’s “Nobody’s Daughter”.
After acquiring a taste for Southern California, Rickard packed up and moved to Los Angeles to pursue more work as a session drummer. Hard times and closed doors made his first year a difficult one. It was a perfect time for him to pick up a guitar and begin writing songs. The first song written was about longing for a life just out of reach called “Dream California”. Soon Rickard had a few songs put together and tried them out at local open mic nights. He then put together a band of his own and began trading his drum services for studio time to record his album.
As his talent began to spread by word of mouth, he developed a reputation as a drummer comfortable in any style, from metal and country, to jazz and pop. He soon found himself in the middle of the California alt-country scene, a warm and familiar place harkening back to his childhood on the hills of west Sonoma County. From 2006 to 2009 Rickard recorded music for the TV shows 'Scrubs' and 'Army Wives' and the films “Little Manhattan”, “Firehouse Dog” and “Less”, all the while continuing to work with Linda Perry, Michelle Shocked, and members of Dwight Yoakam's and Lucinda Williams' bands.
Part of 2009 was also spent in Germany recording the drum tracks for the Delany “Blood and Ashes”, project. A CD that would accompany the Wolfagang Holbein book, “Chronicles Of The Immortal.” The end of 2009 was spent on a tour of Europe with Vain, celebrating the 20th anniversary of “No Respect”.
www.tommyrickard.com
www.myspace.com/tommyrickard
Tone Bent
Robin Eschner and Bill Horvitz, a.k.a. Tone Bent, double up on guitars and vocals as they perform their original songs, and give an occasional spin to a favorite cover. Both are accomplished musicians and composers, and together they deliver gorgeous harmonies and inspired guitar playing.
Their songs consider the many layers of what it means to be human - the things we all share in common, where we differ, how our lives intersect and influence whatever happens next. The songs move from humorous to contemplative and cover a range of things that include a tribute to Susan Butcher, four-time winner of the Iditarod sled dog race in Alaska, a nod to a daughter leaving home to go off on her own, a memory of floating down a river in the San Joaquin valley on a hot summer night, and a meditation on the discovery of a certain blue feather and the way it might change one's life.
Their first CD, "Say What You Will", has been described as: "a roaring ride through the heartland of human experience. Built on earthy guitar parts that sometimes simmer with heat, these tracks are a collection of what is, what might have been, and what could be. Composed through lyrical compositions with a circular logic and a talent for storytelling, these tracks speak to the journey inside us all."
Tone Bent is presently recording CD number two in-between performances, where their fans show up again and again to hear favorite songs, knowing that Bill and Robin will always have something new up their collective sleeve - be it a song, the story behind the song, or the addition of new instruments.
www.tonebent.com
www.billhorvitz.com
www.robineschner.com
Tony Denikos
Tony Denikos, (pronounced "deny-kiss"), writes, records and performs some of the most refreshingly down-home Americana music in the States. A native of Laurel, MD, he has been influenced by artists such as John Fogerty, Lowell George, John Prine, Graham Parker and Richard Thompson.
In 2000, Tony released his debut CD "Naked & Smiling", a collection of songs written that established Tony as one of the Mid Atlantic regions finest songwriters. The CD is a creative statement containing bluesy overtures reminiscent of the artists of the late nineteen-forties to songs with lively, eclectic rhythms and messages that lift the spirit.
His second CD, "Time Tells Tales", was released in the Fall of 2003. Stylistically, the album reflects influences from John Fogerty, Little Feat, Paul Simon, Bruce Springsteen, Waylon Jennings and Steve Earle showcasing Tony's earthy and unique musical voice throughout. The CD combines roots rock'n, country blues'n and eclectic rhythms as well as powerfully written ballads that stop you in your tracks and make you feel, think and dream.
Tony has just completed his third recording "Already Gone". A compilation of 11 distinctive tunes, these songs explore the entire spectrum of Americana music. This CD is full of cutting lyrical wit, breathtakingly personal storytelling and foot stomping backbeats. There are stories here that everyone can relate to about love, working class attitudes, hope, regret, forgotten patriots and unwitting heroes. Fans of roots guitar and fine musicianship will appreciate the world class cast of players, including: drummer Timm Beiry (Nils Lofgren, Danny Gatton); bassists Dave Roe (Johnny Cash, Dwight Yoakam) and Dave Jacques (John Prine, Emmylou Harris); keyboardist Phil Madeira (Emmylou Harris); and, guitarists Gantt Kushner and Warner E. Hodges (Jason and the Scorchers).
Today you can catch Tony performing his songs at venues throughout the Baltimore/Washington region with a band of incredible musicians presenting to the listening world a writing style uniquely his own. His songs will stay with you long after the lights fade to black.....
www.tonydenikos.com
www.myspace.com/tonydenikosband
Too Slim and the Taildraggers
If Tim “Too Slim” Langford only played slide he would slither around most other blues guitarists and put a ferocious bite on their pride. However, as the sole six-string slinger, main songster and lead singer of the power trio he founded in 1986 in Seattle, Washington, he is a total force of nature. Leaving musical tracks for others to try and follow with now 16 albums and countless gigs, he remains as untamed and menacing as ever.
New bassist Polly O’Keary and drummer Tommy Cook provide bone-rattling punch as Langford makes his estimable presence known via eyeball-melting slide stomps, melancholy ballads and butt-kicking rockers on 12 far-reaching, original tunes. “Stoned Again” shows his razor slide in open D, a tuning he owns along with Blind Willie Johnson and Elmore James as he makes a startling pitch for justice regarding getting high with, “The devil drinks his whiskey and Jesus drinks his wine”. The melancholy minor key blues of “Daddies Bones” is a bracing change of pace with Joe Doria providing Hammond B-3 pads for Langford to pick straight lead while he sings a brooding tale about a wayward father that seems to reference the recent movie 'Winter’s Bone'.
The big arena rock sound of “Can’t Dress It Up” would give Tom Petty a run for his money as Langford uses his signature vocal growl to dramatic effect in contrast to the rousing horn hits and anthemic chorus. “In Your Corner” continues the fist-pump with a rocking Memphis boogie groove and vocal hooks that stick to the ribs while Langford unleashes his slide.
Guest soul man Curtis Salgado brings his vox bono to preach understanding on “I Heard Voices”, a smooth slice of funk that Langford gooses with tart lead licks that leads into “Everybody’s Got Something”, a heartfelt plea for unconditional love with, “Everybody’s got something to give”.
Langford next delivers a pointed rant on the insouciant lazy funk of “Workin’” about the current economic plight of the working folk that evolves into an angry, runaway train of a rave-up in the coda before fading. “She Sees Ghosts” is another funky slice of R&B driven by catchy hooks and fills as Langford employs an inventive tale about a dog who “sees things that nobody sees” as a creative metaphor for his own fears.
“Inside Of Me” extends his uneasiness musically with a minor key, medium rocker featuring Doria on keys while Langford wearily expresses his consuming passion for his woman with the restrained, resigned line of “I’m inside of her, she’s inside of me”. With a different take on love and a riff that acknowledges SRV, Langford rocks the shuffle on “As The Tears Go By”, snapping off prickly fills and a solo that is Texas as well as blues-approved. The title track visits grunge city and finds Langford stepping back with his guitar while his rip-picking son Austin Elwood acquits himself with the exuberance and angst of youth as the father emotes with chilling passion about his demons. Closing with a melodic and moving instrumental named for the Mexican town where he honeymooned, “Bucerius” also pays homage to the instrumental bands that came out of the
Northwest in the early sixties.
Langford has used the evocative images of cattle and human skulls as talismans on his album art while his music laughs in the face of life’s challenges. In addition, it exudes the deepest blue feelings that flow through it like the muddy Mississippi. It is an experience often imitated and rarely replicated, but in great evidence throughout "Shiver".
Tori Sparks
Tori Sparks is based in Barcelona, Spain, having recently relocated from Nashville, but she spends most of her time on the road all over the world. Tori at the age of 27, has already released four critically-acclaimed albums under the auspices of her own record label (Glass Mountain Records). She walks the line between soulful and hilarious in her electrifying live performances, singing in English, French and Spanish. Sparks is known as the hardest working woman in the music business, booking and playing well over 200 concerts each year.
Tori Sparks’ upcoming fourth release, 'Until Morning/Come Out Of The Dark', marks her third musical collaboration with producer David Henry (R.E.M., Josh Rouse, Cowboy Junkies, Widespread Panic), and her first with Roger Moutenot (Yo La Tengo, Elvis Costello, Velvet Underground, Gypsy Kings, Paula Cole, Rosanne Cash). The recordings feature a cast of world-class musicians, as well as special guest vocalists Shawn Mullins, Mike Farris, Paris DeLane and indie folk favorite David Mead.
'Until Morning/Come Out Of The Dark' is not a traditional album, but a study in dichotomy. Sparks chose to release the 13 new songs as two conjoined mini-albums, or a double EP. The first disc, 'Until Morning', reflects the dark, sensual, even diabolical side of Tori’s vocal and songwriting skill. The second disc, 'Come Out Of The Dark', is tumbleweed Americana meets fragile folk, or Tori’s ability to show us the dawn that follows the darkness – in a word, the hope that love can bring. This record also marks the first Spanish-language song that Tori has recorded, a classic Cuban tune from the 1940s called “Quizás, Quizás, Quizás”. The album art is a design by noted New York visual artist Joe Petruccio, best known for his work with the Elvis Presley Estate and Graceland in Memphis.
As always, Tori’s lyrics are the golden thread that runs through this artistically ambitious project. In the heart-stopping ballad “Until Morning”, her voice soars on the line, “I love you the way the tide loves the sand, just like the gun loves the trigger-happy hand”. Never one to shy away from heavy topics, Tori’s irreverent side is also present, in lines such as “I could have been your compass, if you’d learn to read a map”, and in referencing biological facts about sharks in the song “Judge a Book”. Sparks casually comments in “On My Mind” that she and a lover were made for each other in the same way that a pair of mafia-style “cement shoes” are custom-made for their victim. The tone of both halves of this project is distinctly personal in a way that surpasses even the intimacy of Tori’s previous three records. We as listeners get the sense that she is letting us in on a very private conversation, especially on the minor epic “Come Out Of The Dark”.
Sparks’ previous three albums climbed the Americana and College charts in the US and overseas, have been licensed by MTV, Lifetime, Oxygen, Life Beyond Breast Cancer, and featured on the compilation Country Vol. 2 released by Universal Music France (over 40,000 copies sold).
Tori will be touring non-stop throughout 2011 and 2012 in support of 'Until Morning/Come Out Of The Dark'.
www.torisparks.com
www.myspace.com/torisparks
Trailerpark Idlers
The story of Trailerpark Idlers began in September 2006 when Morgan Hellman and Magnus Larsson teamed up with Jerker Andersson and Gunnar Nilsson to start a country band that would go a little beyond the genre. With influences from traditional country such as; Hank Williams, Carter family and Johnny Cash, to rock and punk acts like Rolling Stones, Motörhead and Ramones, Trailerpark Idlers came up with a sound of their own. A year later Ben Dee Salmenranta replaced Nilsson and in February 2008 Miss LisaLee joined to make the band complete
.
The band is, with the exception of the bass, strictly acoustic. The two lead singers, Morgan and Miss LisaLee, brings a variation in to the music, from raw and mean to nice and sweet. The lead instrumentalist of the band, Jerker, alternate between mandolin and accordion while Magnus beat the drums and Ben Dee ad some bass to it.
Trailerpark Idlers are into a never-ending recording session. Though they has exist as a band less than three years they have released six CD’s so far. They have their own recording studio called “The Forge” and their own label called “Something Wicked”.
The new CD was released in April 2009 and are, at first sight, a collection of Christian hymns. However, as you listen to it you will find that there is a lot more to it than just another country band doing religious songs. You will find that there is hope, despair, doubt, anger and so on....
www.trailerparkidlers.se
www.myspace.com/trailerparkidlers
www.lastfm.se/music/Trailerpark+Idlers
Trevor Hall
Vanguard Records is excited to announce the release of Trevor Hall’s new album “Everything Everytime Everywhere” available August 23rd, 2011.
Produced by Jimmy Messer, the eleven tracks on “Everything Everytime Everywhere” showcase Hall’s rare ability to write universal songs infused with underlying themes of devotion and community in the vein of two of his heroes, Ben Harper and Bob Marley. From the upbeat, anthemic “Brand New Day”, straight through to the momentous closing track, “The Mountain,” Hall’s signature blend of catchy pop/rock songs with stylish shades of reggae has made this diverse 24-year-old one of the most lauded up-and-coming artists on the American music scene.
Created with a host of incredible musicians, including longtime guitarist for Matisyahu, Aaron Dugan, bass player Brian Lang and drummer Aaron Sterling, “Everything Everytime Everywhere” also features guest vocals from Jamaican songstress Cherine Anderson.
“Everything Everytime Everywhere” is the follow up to his 2009 label debut, “Trevor Hall”, which featured the single “Unity”, a song written and performed with long time friend, Matisyahu. The self-titled release debuted at #7 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart and Hall was cited by MTV’s ‘Subway Fresh Buzz’ Series as “one of the 20 emerging artists for 2010.”
His captivating live performances and growing popularity have led to sold out shows across the country. Hall has also toured with the legendary Jimmy Cliff, Michael Franti, Matisyahu and Colbie Caillat, to name a few.
http://publicity.vanguardrecords.com
Trey Johnson
One year after the release of his critically acclaimed debut solo recording, 'Mount Pelèe', Trey Johnson delivers an eclectic mix of music performed by a variety of musicians. Produced by Trey, his partner Don Cento, guitarist and producer/arranger on 'Mount Pelèe', and Paul Williams (Polyphonic Spree, Reverend Horton Heat).
'Where The East Ends' has a unique identity all its own. Where 'Mount Pelèe' searched for new sonic territory and subject matter, 'W.T.E.E.' explores different styles and energy.
Recorded in just 10 days in May at Tomcast studios in Dallas the core band remained the same, James Driscoll, Rich Martin and Don Cento. However this time around, new musicians are heard all over the record. Matt Kellum provides the bulk of the drumming. Joe Cripps, and studio owner Tom Bridwell also contribute. Bubba Hernandez contributes upright bass and tuba. Chad Stockslager and Becky Middleton contribute backing vocals. A horn section including Annie Benjamin on flute and Dave Monsch on saxaphone round out the cast.
The result is a recording with more personality and unexpected turns than its predecessor. At just under 35 minutes it'll fit in your pocket and leave you wishing there was more left.....
www.treyjohnsonmusic.com
www.myspace.com/sortatrey
Ted Russell Kamp
Terrible Lizard
Terry & Ronnie
Tim Bragg
Tim Steward
Toby
Tokyo Rosenthal
Tom Corbett
Tom Dean
Tom Freund
Tómas Alexander
Tomás Kocko
Tommy Rickard
Tone Bent
Tony Denikos
Too Slim
Tori Sparks
Trailerpark Idlers
Trevor Hall
Trey Johnson
