Sunday, December 9, 2007

Christmas Presence

If you're getting ready to write to Santa (hopefully, you were good this year) then BSRR would like to suggest you ask for the following musical gifts under your tree:


1. Bruce Burnside: Sample the output of this talented musician - singer - songwriter and you'll find a wealth of carefully crafted traditional music. Bruce's dedication to the various musical genres he enjoys is obvious and infectious. For Bruce's music and musings, visit: http://www.bruceburnside.com/


2. Scott Allen: "Doc" Allen's lyrics range from biting commentaries on the hypocrisy that poisons the public sector to his innermost reflections on love and life. His approach is reminiscent of Dylan, but his voice is melodic and his playing effortless. For more, check out Scott Allen at http://www.milomusic.com/.


3. William Topley: His voice is bigger than life - from soulful wails to soft litanies -, his music ranges from blues to ballads to reggae to rock, and his band changes seamlessly from style to style. Topley is a commanding presence. Find out at http://www.williamtopley.com/.


4. Robert Johnson: Hard to believe the extent of this Delta bluesman's influence on the modern music world based on two recording sessions in Texas in the 1930s. His exceptional guitar playing - picking, sliding, strumming as if two people were playing at once - combines with his powerful plaintive voice to create an indelible impression that inspired Jimmy Page and Eric Clapton among others.


5. The Cutlass Three: Their music is far from low key, but it is surprising that these three relatively young musicians can produce such solid, textured and driving rock. Not only is most of their music original, it is also road-tested, which bodes well for the band's promising future. Check out www.myspace.com/thecutlassband.

More next week - have fun at the Mall, if that's possible.

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