Ever wonder why some artists are revered and respected and others never get even a glimmer of recognition? Whatever the reason, music lovers often remain unaware of the musicians that fall short of superstardom. So do I! Here are a few artists that I believe deserve discovery.
Dawes
Alluring, accessible and effortlessly engaging, Dawes’ music recalls the Byrds, Buffalo Springfield, the Eagles and a distinctive ‘70s sensibility. Two exquisite albums affirm their Laurel Canyon vibe, an engaging blend of nuance and nostalgia. (www.dawestheband.com)
RIYL: Byrds, Buffalo Springfield, the Eagles
The Deep Dark Woods
Following three earlier albums, this Canadian combo went all out for The Place I left Behind, creating an instant, emphatic impression. Drawing from a rootsy rock template, the songs boast rich arrangements, subtle hooks and gentle refrains. Given their twilight appeal, the band offers an outstanding example of authentic Americana. (www.thedeepdarkwoods.com)
RIYL: The Band, The Flying Burrito Brothers
The Doughboys
New Jersey’s Doughboys were high school pals with Rock ‘n’ Roll dreams. Forty years later, drummer, multi-instrumentalist and power pop wunderkind Richard X Heyman revived his former band in hopes of garnering renewed recognition. A recent DVD, Rock N’ Raw, documents their road from past to present, spotlighting the gritty, R&B based garage grunge that does due diligence to their early ‘60s influences. (www.thedoughboysnj.com) (www.richardxheyman.com)
RIYL: Rolling Stones, The Animals, The Kinks
Laura Marling
Laura Marling emerged from the same English environs that spawned last year’s sensations, Mumford & Sons. So too, her last album, the supple A Creature I Don’t Know, became a major stepping stone in her career. Subtle yet sensual, savvy and assured, her smooth croon channels early Joni Mitchell, Janis Ian and Norah Jones while also affirming she’s a singular star. (www.lauramarling.com)
RIYL: Joni Mitchell, Nora Jones, Judy Collins
Fernando Perdomo
Whether on his own, collaborating with others, or helming his band Dreaming in Stereo, Fernando Perdomo purveys a distinctive ‘70s sound, melding the Moody Blues’ symphonic style with the drama and daring of early ELO. Perdomo, who also helms his Forward Motion Records label, is a proverbial presence on numerous albums by fellow South Florida artists, a veritable renaissance man with skill to spare. (www.fernandoperdomo.com)
RIYL: ELO, Moody Blues, Beatles
Edward Rogers
Rogers’ music delivers enough hooks to outfit a fishing fleet. An English expatriate who resides in New York City, he makes radio-ready, listener-friendly pop that sounds unerringly familiar even on first hearing. Porcelain, his latest, makes a fine follow up to his exquisite sophomore set, Sparkle Lane, another superb showcase for his vibrant songwriting and adroit delivery. (www.edwardrogersmusic.com)
RIYL: Todd Rundgren, Badfinger, Paul McCartney
Stepkids
Like the Black Keys, the Stepkids offer up an interesting hybrid of psychedelic soul, freewheeling funk and progressive jazz. Having weaned their skills backing up various rap and soul superstars, they stepped out on their own with last year’s self-titled debut, an album that fully demonstrates their adventurous intents and genre-defying ambitions. (www.thestepkidsband.com)
RIYL: Black Keys, Funkadelic, Jamiroquai
Matt Woods
A native of Knoxville Tennessee, Woods’ knack for conveying heartfelt homage to traveling troubadours, hard luck heroes and the blue collar everyman gives him a reliable stock and trade. Evidence lies in “A Company Town” and “Johnny Ray Dupree,” both taken from his excellent album The Matt Woods Manifesto. (www.therealmattwoods.com)
RIYL: Townes Van Zandt, Gram Parsons, James Taylor
