|
Martin Moss &
Sedona |
|
Martin and Chrissie first performed together after an introduction in 1986, and have been together since. In 1989 they independently released a critically acclaimed album of Martin’s songs “Up Against The Wall”. By the early 90’s they had formed the country rock band “Cheatin’ Hearts” which quickly became very popular. Today they are two of the best-known musicians in their hometown of Bristol, England and now perform either as a duo or with their acoustic band “The Whole Band” playing a mix of covers and Martin’s originals. They have appeared on British TV and radio, and their material is regularly included on European play lists. As well as the UK they have played in Europe, including the "International Country Music Festival" in Zevenbergen, Holland, where they appeared again in June 2000. Their USA appearances include showcasing at the “Country Music Organisations Of America” annual show in Las Vegas, the "Tennessee Country Music Association" in Gatlinburg, and shows in Arlington, Fort Worth, and Dallas, Texas. On
this CD "Sedona," many of the songs are inspired by past travels through
the American west. Martin cites his song writing influences as what
he describes as The best way I can describe the music of Martin Moss & Chrissie Hammonds is, Bob Dylan meets Robert Earl Keen Jr, in fact Martin sounds incredibly like the latter mentioned R.E.K. There is absolutely no doubt, the stand out track on this album is the title track "Sedona." This is an absolutely wonderful song............based on a trip from Flagstaff, Arizona down to Sedona............. that knocked me out the very first time I heard it. The song has also been recorded as a duet with Paul Mateki on his equally excellent CD, "So Strong." (Reviewed elsewhere on this site) This is one of those songs that you just can't get out of your head and is certainly one of the best songs I've heard so far this year! The good music doesn't stop there though as this 11 track album is full of great, original material, like the Dylan-ish "Old Mission Hall" and the very catchy "Jenny Lake" with nice touches of Harmonica. Plus "Cowboy Gathering" and the Mandolin driven "I Knew It Was You" with Chrissie on Lead Vocal's to name just a few. Martin
& Chrissie's voices complement each other very well on an album
that is very much in the Folk/Country vein with heavy Texas influences
and should appeal to fans of both genre's. There's an E: mail address at the top of this review, if this sounds like your kind of music, get in touch and find out how to get hold of a copy. You'll be glad you did!!!
|
