I just received a copy of the new Lance Whalen release, Sweet Sugar Pie and although not very bluesy, it scratches an itch. Whalen has a scratchy voice and song style very similar to one of my favorite contemporary songwriters, Frank Black. Opening with What The Hell Was I Thinking, a light folksy but European sounding track, this is the beginning of a quite clever EP. Accompanied by a simple drum beat, minimal banjo, bass and understated but tasty guitar work this is a really great song. Best I Can is a very traditional sounding track based over a simple waltz structure. Again, strong vocals by Whalen are the highlight although there is a nice simple violin solo on this track as well. The title track, Sweet Sugar Pie is a simple ballad with a strong melody and smooth instrumentation. Completing the EP is The Way You Love Me, cool folk ballad with experimental sounding looped electric guitar work under the surface.
This is a short but interesting release demonstrating strong writing and vocal talent from newcomer Lance Whalen.
If you support live Blues acts, up and coming Blues talents and want to learn more about Blues news and Fathers of the Blues, - ”LIKE” ---Bman’s Blues Report--- Facebook Page! I’m looking for great talent and trying to grow the audience for your favorite band! This track is not from the new EP but typical of Whalen's work.
I like what I heard in the video. Looking fwd to picking up a copy of that one. The blues definitely comes through to my ears- even with the Hillbilly filter off. Hope that there up-tempo and uplifting songs as well. It's understood that my taste is a little more 'Country tolerant' than some folks. Nice post, Bman!
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