Ok so one of the new albums that I downloaded the other day to listen to on Blues Wednesday was American Patchwork by Anders Osborne. Well I just put the album on to listen to it on more time before I wrote this piece forgetting (a) that I ran tonight and (b) that it was nearing 11:00 anyway the album opens with a great song “On the Road to Charlie Parker” …….and then I feel asleep!
So Eliot he plays a lot in New Orleans, if you read this is he good!! No seriously this album on Alligator Records is really good. Osborne who was born in Sweden and traveled the world before settling in New Orleans is a great guitarist and songwriter. He has written songs that have appeared on Keb’ Mo’s Grammy winning album Slow Down and Country superstar Tim McGraw scored a 1 hit with Anders’ song “Watch The Wind Blow By.” From his myspace page:
Osborne and friend Stanton Moore (Galactic) produced American Patchwork, with co-production by Pepper Keenan (of Down and Corrosion Of Conformity). Osborne wrote all ten songs, all imbued with serious lyrical depth, unforgettable melodies and performed with soul muscle. The guitar work is simply spectacular. His vocals soar with natural, emotional power. With musical assistance from Moore on drums, Keenan on percussion and guitar, and Robert Walter on keyboards, American Patchwork is nothing short of a career-defining release for Osborne, and a bright new chapter in his remarkable journey. As far as Osborne is concerned, American Patchwork is a triumphant achievement. “Every note has a purpose, a serious focus. As I was writing it and recording it, everything fell right into place.”
What can I say other than I enjoy the album more every time I listen to it. The tracks that I like include “On the Road to Charlie Parker” ‘ Killing Each Other” , “Acapulco” and “Meet Me in New Mexico” and Osborne’s guitar playing is great as is his songwriting ability!
Other members of his band who also shine on the album include:
Pepper Keenan -Background Vocals, Guitars, Percussion
Stanton Moore -Drums
Robert Walter – Hammond B3, Piano, Moog, Clavinet, Keyboard Bass
Again form his myspace page, here’s what others have said:
Blues Revue describes Osborne’s music as “an articulate and spellbinding tapestry of sorrow and joy.” New Orleans’ Times-Picayune says Osborne’s music is “genuine, focused and uplifting…guitar fireworks and a well-traveled voice.” The Newark Star-Ledger simply says, “This guy is in his own universe.”
So check him out just don’t do it late at night after a four mile run!
Here’s “Echoes of My Sins” from American Patchwork
