"Have I become just another winter tree? ... Is that how you see me?" Brian's voice is a soothing, deep, full, and airy baritone. Singing barely above a whisper and a gentleness that belies the giant, powerful frame of the former NFLer. He is enamored with, and somewhat resembles, Sasquatch (as am I).
I have the distinct honor and privilege of previewing "Jealous Hands," which is to be released April 19th. I will add the iTunes link when I can. (Update: Jealous Hands on iTunes)
"Open Grave" begins with a guitar hook; aptly named, because it literally pulls you into the rhythm. Scott's discerning ear and distaste for cookie cutter guitar benefits us all.
"Counting all your blessings like the scars on a drunkard's hands," "Mt. Moriah" is both soothing and haunting. In fact, I often listen to Tallahassee to relax when I'm stressed at work or having trouble falling asleep, but unlike reading technical articles, if I'm energetic their music also peps me up. On this song the four part harmony stands out and you realize that each man brings a full bag of talent to this shindig.
Based out of Boston, Tallahassee is a hard working band about to release their third album (if you count the EP) to iTunes. I've described their sound as somewhere between Counting Crows and the Traveling Wilbury's. But the fact is I cannot classify this music. They do their own thing. They're doing it with beards.
"Wooden Heart" highlight's Scott's penchant for varied and interesting instruments as well as Matt's impeccable timekeeping behind the drum kit. A true percussionist, Matt feels no compulsion for a fill or solo every other bar. He drives the band, usually slow and steady, and fills in with musical percussion, such as a light cadence with brushes on snare. I wonder if that's him playing the orchestra bells?
I haven't heard the word "baby," yet. Thank you. Brian's lyrics are thought provoking, and done in such a way that they illustrate the story rather than tell it. I can almost smell dried maple leaves and burned wood right now.
Shawn's bass is omnipresent and nigh undetectable. He and Scott meld into a single instrument. Melody's have motion and depth. More like a calm lake than a churning river.
Brian's rhythm guitar is like jello. It just slides in around the edges. There's a synergy in this band which is palpable during a live performance.
"Songs of The Lonely Highway" feels much like I do on a lonely highway... plodding and sleepy. And that's my point. You don't just listen to Tallahassee you hear, feel, see, and experience their emotion and imagination. It's the goal of every artist, isn't it?
I don't think I need to comment on very song, which is great, because I haven't I sort of got sucked into listening. Please, consider doing the same.
PS- "The Ghost of John Denver:" I know you're dying to know what that's about.
PPS- You should know Scott's my brother, so I'm not entirely unbiased. However, this is one of my favorite groups. I won't apologize for that.
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