Local 'ear album' features variety of sounds

By Lynn A. Wade

Herald-Tribune

An eclectic montage of budding local musical talent is being released Sept. 19.

The Bands from the Back 40 compact disc is ready and waiting for listeners. Copies are available online through www.localearmusic.com and from featured artists at performances.

It's a unique sampling of local artists performing in a variety of genres, each at his or her own stage of development as musicians and songwriters. All of them, though, have some things in common. They all have roots in Vernon County, they all have put heart and soul into sharing their music and seeking to help grow the talents and opportunities to showcase the talents of local artists; and they've all created unique, original works incorporating style and a big dose of creativity into each song on the CD.

It's sort of like a musical box of chocolates, with several different types of music, each with its own flavor. Most people will hear something they like in this collection, from a toe-tapping country-blues style ode to the freedom of the road to bluegrass-style gospel tunes to mournful songs of love gone bad in alternative rock and pop styles.

Here's what's on the CD:

Marci Mitchell's "Road Trip," written by Mitchell herself and M. Oliverious, suits her rich, earthy voice well. It's an upbeat, country tune with a sound and a theme that's both classic and modern at the same time. As the title implies, it's about friends hitting the road on an adventure, this one to Daytona. The destination's no more specific than that, but this has definite potential as a theme for race fans who make pilgrimages to the Florida beach town... or for anyone who just likes the idea of getting away.

Another tune by Mitchell, "Lovers to Friends," is about the breakup of a romantic relationship, in a traditional country style.

Then there's "Cake and Ice Cream" by Elisnore. It's an acoustic, joyful-sounding love song of sorts. This one is fun and easy to relate to. Youthful and bouncy, the tune's repeating themes are catchy. This one has an urban feel, plenty of movement and inspires the temptation to sing along.

"Jezebel" by Baby Fingers is a soulful alternative tune about the pitfalls of getting involved with the wrong woman. Performed with the accompaniment of an acoustic guitar, the sultry melody communicates both the mystery and danger of the song, and it's a work full of promise for the future.

Matt Harper has two songs on the CD, both of them with a distinctly bluegrass/traditional gospel feel. "Long-haired friend of Jesus" and "Morning Guy" both have themes of celebration, rejuvenation and praise in plain, everyday words. He doesn't slip into religious clichés or overworked analogies. His frank, conversational lyrics will bring in some listeners who might otherwise dismiss such songs.

"Right by Your Side," by James McIntire, is also performed acoustically. The title's a double entendre -- right, as in it's not wrong but right; and right, as in being in close proximity. Promoters call this one a "Violent Fems meets Green Day" sort of song. The bare acoustic guitar accompaniment makes this piece fell genuine and honest.

"A Little of Your Time," by the Joneses,is a modern version of a protest song. Songs that show us how we can make a difference never get old. This one is no exception. The vocalist's voice is light and friendly, and the message is one of caring. It's worth a listen, and then worth acting on the message in the song.

A band with an alternative sound leaning more toward traditional rock (his promoters call it progressive punk rock) with some electronic experimentation, Worba rounds out the CD with a tune, "Fall In," that shows off an interesting range of abilities in a unique blend of instrumentation and vocals.

"Dangerous Doug" Harper, an active force in promoting local artists, has a tune of his own on the CD. A quirky, fun play in sound effects and overall performance style, a live version's on the CD. "I Found Myself a Monkey" one of those set-closing, just-for-fun tunes sure to get a smile from the listener.

The Local Ear's Web site calls the new CD a keepsake that could be quite valuable in the future, as these bands grow and evolve.

For more information about these and other popular local musicians visit www.localearmusic.com.