Auburn has been captivating audiences around the world with their unique blend of Americana, blues and roots music. With varied reviewers’ comparisons from Bonnie Raitt and Macy Gray to Leonard Cohen and Tom Waits, their songs grab you melodically and tell stories of life’s ups and downs.
The band have recorded their last 4 albums in Nashville, Tennessee, with award- winning, Grammy-nominated producer Thomm Jutz, gaining airplay worldwide, and touring extensively, as special guests with Sophie Ellis Bexter, Jefferson Starship and Martin Carthy amongst others, as well as many headline shows.
Their brand-new single “Don’t Give Up: was recorded between Nashville and Malvern Hills, UK. Produced and recorded by Thomm Jutz, Liz Lenten also worked with seasoned vocal producer/hit songwriter Martin Sutton on the vocals.
Says Liz, “‘Don’t Give Up’ is all about how difficult life can get, particularly in today’s crazy times… and offering support and hope, to get through your troubles. Sometimes, we all need a helping hand; to know we’re not alone, and to be told ‘you’re enough – you got this!’”
“Intimate kind of retro styled blues” – Music Street Journal (USA)
“Auburn makes wonderfully atmospheric music…like the kind of country that first turned rappers on to Johnny Cash because he was such an OG” – Midwest Records (USA)
Credits Liz Lenten – Lead Vocals Thomm Jutz – Guitars, Bass, Keys (Nanci Griffiths, Mary Gauthier, Mac Wise) Lynn Williams – Drums (Delbert McClinton, Lee Roy Parnell, The Wallflowers) Cat Aimi – Harmony Vocals (Wanted Sisters)
Vocal Production – Martin Sutton (Leanne Rimes, Backstreet Boys) Recorded, Mixed and Produced by Thomm Jutz
The
recordings of Elvis Presley remain as pertinent today as they always have. In fact,
it is likely with each passing year that their importance goes up one more
notch. His position in rock music goes without saying and there are still many
new fans to gain. The release of these informative box sets has shed new light
on one of our greatest performers.
This rootsy original music is the second version of a A Boy From Tupelo-The Complete 1953-1955
Recordings. The three CDs and
booklet capitalizes on his never-ending popularity.
This set puts together all the known existing Elvis Presley
recordings from 1953 through 1955. A massive total of 53 studio takes and 32
live performances are included. These were the Sun Years and there is even cuts
the man paid for himself. At this point that sounds ludicrous but we must
remember he had humble beginnings as most artists did when they first started.
The priceless masters released for Sam Phillips on his iconic Memphis label
feature a treasure trove of outtakes and acetates. This set can claim rights to
the “complete” set of that period. It was a monumental achievement to get all
this music together and remaster it. Some parts are snippets put together piece
by piece.
Something needs to be said for the generous book that is
included with many rare pictures. It is the story behind the music. If you
enjoy reading about the history of this legend then this will be a big plus
while you are listening. The 119 pages come packed with notes on the beginnings
of Elvis and his early career.
The most enjoyable thing for my ears was listening to the
influence of country and blues intersecting with his quickly developing style
and voice. It is simplistic music at times, yet his full-bodied vocals served
as a separate instrument. His contributions were just enough to really
appreciate all the instrumentation as well. You have to keep in mind that
recording was in its infancy in comparison to today’s high-tech tools and
enhancements. His voice was very mature so early on and you could hear how and
why he was a shooting star once his music hit the streets. He went from a
little boy watching the choir at church and trying to sing with them to an
international super star in matter of years. Stories like Elvis are not
something you hear these days and honestly there are not performers like him
around anymore nor anyone to challenge his continuing popularity and legacy. I
am still waiting for that day to arrive although realistically I am not very
confident it will.
There is a lot of music and information to absorb in A Boy From Tupelo-The Complete 1953-1955
Recordings. It is well worth the
price tag if you are Elvis fan or a general music fan curious about the early
career of such a legendary performer. If you listen to the popular genre of
Roots Music you will hear how some of that music started on this set. He laid
down the foundation for so much as so many artists that came after him. Elvis
set many precedents and this music was a real treat when I first heard it. It
can be very special if you are already familiar with his catalog and diverse
career path in recording. Either way, there is a lot to enjoy here for any
music fan or history buff.
RJ Comer's music and vocals have a way of grabbing you without fail. He has the look of an old soul, someone that has lived the songs that he sings.
A good example of that thought is "The Moon Ain't Fallen on Me Yet" from his Nightly Suicide album. The music is dark and mesmerizing and the message hits home. He is saying that regardless of the late night rolls of the dice in whatever frame of reference one can think of, the bright globe above has not fallen down and extinguished his love of the night and taking risks.
One listen pulls you right in so check out the video now. Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck
RJ Comer is a Los Angeles city boy and storyteller with the backwaters of Americana and Blues running through his veins. He started out singing
in church and around the campfire, but ended up in a lot of bad places at wrong times. RJ’s music reflects the witty, gritty, tender and tough guy he is. From downtempo gritty songs that cut deep with self-deprecating humor and jagged memories to upbeat songs that swagger even when they swing, RJ’s music is both meaningful and entertaining...READ MORE...
With old man winter quickly approaching, the Colonial
Theater in Pittsfield, Massachusetts was warmed up by the sounds of The Weight.
Featuring former members of The Band, Levon Helm Band and Rick Danko Group, the
legendary sounds of that fondly remembered band called “The Band” come shining
through with this all-star cast of players. Their namesake is after one of
their more famous tracks and they represent this classic music most
appropriately.
I will give the abbreviated rundown of the lineup
provided right from the band’s website.
Jim Weider is a former member of the legendary group, The
Band. From 1985 to 2000, Jim replaced Robbie Robertson as their lead
guitarist.
Randy Ciarlante was a member of the second incarnation of
The Band. Up until Levon's passing, he double-drummed in Levon Helm's Midnight
Ramble Band.
Brian Mitchell is a current member of Levon Helm's Midnight
Ramble Band and is well-known within the circles of the music industry and
beyond for his solo career and his high-profile collaborations.
Byron Isaacs is a current member of Levon Helm's Midnight
Ramble Band, The Dirt Farmer Band and Ollabelle.
Marty Grebb played with The Rick Danko Band, The Garth
Hudson Band, wrote songs with Richard Manuel, and also wrote for and recorded
with Eric Clapton, Leon Russell, Etta James, Marty also wrote songs, and played
for The Band appearing on the Jericho CD.
Now you have to admit that each member of The Weight has
an impressive resume. They would prove throughout the night their fine musical
pedigree would be consistent. I would classify their music as eclectic at the
very least, an enticing mixture of rock, blues, Americana, roots, honky tonk
and ragtime. That is a literal musical stew to be sure. There are also hints of
a New Orleans spicy flavor to their sound as well particularly when Brain
Mitchell picked up the accordion (otherwise known as the organ from hell).
This is one talent laden band. Every member can sing and plays
like the polished professionals I anticipated seeing. A highlight of the night was
the multitude of instruments Marty Greeb played which included keyboards,
guitar and saxophones. They are all very talented however it was not hard to recognize
how many different things this man did.
The night started at 8pm sharp, as all shows do at the
Colonial and there was no warm up band. As we found out very quickly we did not
any other lineup to warm our souls. Some songs just speak for themselves and
their history carries a heavy responsibility in presenting them as originally
intended. I assure you this was accomplished…just like laying down a royal
flush on the card table.
Some of the songs that really spoke to the audience in
attendance were “Across The Great Divide” and Springsteen’s “Atlantic City.”
You knew instantly it was Springsteen’s song even though this music is quite
different from the catalog of “The Boss.” “Cripple Creek” got some hoots and
hollers of course as did “The Weight,” as both are signature tunes. For these
ears the highlight of the entire evening was “Life’s A Carnival.” Everything
about that song featured this band at their best and it bleeds and sweats The
Band. They also mentioned former members of The Band during the course of the
night paying respect to their legacy and importance to the music they were
playing.
It does not get much better than this. Sometimes you have
to go see a cover band to enjoy music you loved because the band has long since
dissolved or members have passed away. You need not worry, every one of these
members is connected with The Band and now they bring this original and unique
blend of music to the stage. I am grateful for the opportunity to have
witnessed it and would not hesitate to do it again. If you are looking for a
great evening of music that will spice up your life and put a smile in your soul
make sure you check out The Weight.
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Founder of Write A Music
Review, Prog Rock Music Talk, MuzikMan.net, MuzikMan Reviews, New Age Music
Reviews, Rate The Tracks
Eric Tingstad's "Swamped" is but one example of his excellence at connecting to the roots and blues music that literally influences all music to this day. His guitar playing and production is superb! I instantly felt a connection to his music as soon as it started playing. Words are not necessary because this music will speak to you! Make sure you check out more of Tingstad's music on his new release Mississippi and read the review.
Eric Tingstad’s solo recording career began in 1982 with the release of On The Links. Capitalizing on his gift for composition, On the Links compiled eleven original songs best described as part of the burgeoning New Age genre. The album appeared on his private label, Cheshire Records, under which he continues to release albums of his own music and others.
Tingstad won a Grammy Award for Best New Age Album in 2003 as artist, engineer, and producer of Tingstad and Rumbel’s, Acoustic Garden. He continues to tour as part of Tingstad and Rumbel, an acoustic duo that remains a standard among listeners of the instrumental/New Age genres.
Roots rockers BoDeans arrived in the Berkshires last night and played a non-stop rousing set of numbers for the pleased audience at the Colonial Theater.
Band members are Stockbridge native Kenny Aronoff (drums), Sam Hawksley (backing vocals/acoustic and electric guitar), Eric Holden (bass), who is another Berkshires native, Stefano Intelisano (keyboard/accordion), Eamon McLoughlin (fiddle, lap steel, mandolin, acoustic guitar) and Kurt Neumann (lead vocals/electric guitar).
The band is well-known for their performances since the 80s when they first formed and we found out why. The combination of Rock, Americana, Blues and Roots makes for what I would call a tasteful plate of appetizing rock music. They can flat out rock and then pull it back and bring forward instruments into the mix such as violin, mandolin, and the accordion.
This is the kind of band that is appreciated by folks that sincerely appreciate good musicianship and a wide variety of genres all mixed together. It is eclectic and wonderful to hear and the BoDeansknow exactly how to present it all in one nice package.
With Aronoff’s return as their drummer his family was in the audience, including his dead ringer twin brother, who we first thought was the musician sibling walking around shaking everyone’s hand. I knew Aronoff was one of the greatest drummers in the world and I could not stop watching him perform. He is a perpetual motion machine and does amazing things with an average size drum kit, which is a credit to his expertise and all around talent.
Previous to the concert I purchased a BoDeans two CD live release from 2008 titled Homebrewed: Live From The Pabst. I would highly recommend grabbing a copy of this release as it served as the perfect introduction to their shows and set a high level of anticipation for me. I must add I was not disappointed in fact I was quite impressed how much talent at every position this band has.
The only drawback I could recognize all evening was that the organ was buried in the mix, very seldom could you hear it come to the front. I am not sure why this was but it certainly did not hurt their presentation that is for sure. For all I know it was the way they intended to present their music.
What I found most impressive was their energy, they never stopped to take a short break then resume like most sets do. There was no opening act, which was fine with me. At times they would segue from one song to another but it gave us a moment to applaud in appreciation of the previous number. The audience was most appreciative for every song they performed and sang along to a few. Kurt Neumann is a fine front man that is relaxed and in control. His vocal style fits the music with perfection.
Highlights of the night were “Get Much,”“Fadeaway,” “Amercian,” and “Good Work.” Each of these performances showed a tight band enjoying what they were doing and that translated in each song to the audience with an impact.
The set list was full and broad based and any music fan could appreciate how this band can jam. Their professionalism and abilities are on a very high level and I would see them again in a minute. This band called BoDeans is an American treasure and if you have not discovered their music yet I suggest you do, only then will you realize the enjoyment you have been missing, just as I did last night.
Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Founder Write A Music Reviews
Eric Tingstad is a Grammy Award winning composer, producer, singer and songwriter primarily known for his finger style guitar work. Tingstad has crafted works in the Americana, Bluegrass, Alternative Country, Jazz, Blues and New Age genres. In his newest album Mississippi he indulges in all of them. This album takes a look at the cradle of music where much of the style of music Tingstad is known for originated from.
“Mississippi” is the title track to the album. It takes us on a walk alongside of one of our nation’s greatest rivers. The rambling guitar picking paired with light percussive elements blends together like water and river silt to make that muddy river flow. Jazzy at times with elements of Americana roots, this piece teems with life.
“Swamped” comes to life picking and grinning and reminds me of what it feels like to be hip deep in deadlines and hardly able to come up for air. Stop, start, and plod along all the while trying to keep your head above water with an upbeat attitude and a gallon of coffee. Textured and plucky, “Swamped” should be the song of my life and as soon as I heard it, I smiled. Bouncing, happy with the whirlwind and the myriad of theoretical plates spinning in the air, it says it all. It’s all in the hips and if you dance while life keeps going, you’ll get there.
“Chester” reminded me of a dog. Yep, a floppy eared overeager retriever bounding along at his master’s heels. Happy and alert, this piece encapsulates all that is good in the world. Guitar picking in a smooth roots rock style, Tingstad illustrates life with sound and paints a picture of happy carefree moments that should never be taken for granted. This was one of my favorite pieces on the album.
The care and precision that has gone into this album is quite evident. Mississippi is a tribute to a great river and a place in music’s history that helped to form much of music today as we know it. As a listener, I find the album also speaks to life in general. We all cry tears, feel swamped, miss a loved one and at the end of the day hopefully have a furry four legged friend to go home to. The one thing that drew it all together for me was Tingstad’s style of guitar work, stellar composition and musical imagery. Each bridge and transition was seamless and kept me wanting more. In fact, I haven’t stopped playing the album since I started. It’s good company on an afternoon when a little spring in my step is just what’s needed. I highly recommend this blues album for anyone who wants a taste of instrumental Americana at its best.
5/5 Stars
Key Tracks: Mississippi, Swamped, Chester
Tracks: 01. Long Boats 02. Shakin' in the Cradle 03. Mississippi 04. Trail of Tears 05. Swamped 06. Tennessee Rain 07. Danny Boy 08. Skamania 09. Highway One 10. Durango 11. Chester
“Fronted by a tremendous vocalist in Liz Lenten… the group create mature heartfelt melodies for a new generation” Morning Star Online
London, UK - 2014 is already proving to be a hugely exciting year for acoustic ensemble Auburn, who reformed in 2011 after almost a decade apart. With a new album and a major UK tour supporting the legendary Jefferson Starship as they celebrated their 40th anniversary, Auburn have been captivating audiences around the country with their unique blend of Americana, blues and roots music.
The new album, ‘Nashville’, features 12 newly-penned songs from singer-songwriter and Auburn lynchpin Liz Lenten, and establishes Auburn’s place as a compelling force in contemporary Americana. Showcasing Liz’s versatility as both a writer and vocalist, Nashville’s sonic world fuses elements of blues, country and roots music, with soulful lyrics and catchy pop rhythms.
Recorded in Nashville, Tennessee with award-winning producer Thomm Jutz (Nanci Griffiths, Mary Gauthier) ‘Nashville’ features musicians who have played with everyone from Roy Orbison to Garth Brooks and Dolly Parton. Three tracks from the album were made available on ReverbNation prior to its release and within a few weeks had reached No.1 in the UK Americana charts and No.7 in the Global Americana charts.
Auburn were delighted to be asked to support the legendary rock band Jefferson Starship on the band’s 40th anniversary tour during January and February 2014. The 11-date tour gave them the opportunity to showcase new material from the Nashville album to large audiences across the UK, where the feedback was unanimously positive. Liz was invited on stage at the end of each night to perform with Jefferson Starship on their closing number ‘The Volunteers’.
Following this success, Auburn are now lining up dates for festivals and gigs throughout 2014 and beyond, and are already working on new material, as well as a new video from the tour.
Artist: Amelia Title: A Long, Lovely List of Repairs Genre: Folk-Roots Label: Adrenaline Website iTunes Link Source Link
Amelia the band, not the girl, has been making a name for themselves in the Pacific Northwest and seem positioned perfectly with their new release A Long, Lovely List of Repairs to solidify their foundation and expand upon it. In spite of the confusion that the name of the band creates, they decided that they would stick with it and it has not hindered their growth or success....READ MORE...
Los Angeles, CA-July 1, 2008- Hailing from the great Northwest, Amelia, the band, not a person, is ready to fill your head with a rich pageant of musical tapestries and atmospheres on their new release A Long, Lovely List of Repairs, on the Adrenaline imprint...READ MORE...
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