Biography
The Red Lions emerged from Eric Margan’s musical endeavors over the past three years, a collection of songs written by recording layers of flutes, guitars, pianos, string orchestra, vibraphone and who knows what else. With the help and contributions of countless friends and colleagues, this project has turned into a debut full-length album, "Midnight Book." Throughout the recording process, Margan often called upon the aid of multi-instrumentalist Scott Kellerhouse and drummer/producer James Bertini. The recent addition of songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Rick Spataro has inspired a new collaboration and these four strong-willed men are currently writing and performing songs as "The Red Lions".
Live performances of Midnight Book feature various string, woodwind and brass players, but the core lineup is currently writing and performing as a 4-piece rock band. The Red Lions are rapidly earning the respect and admiration of fans and bands, including opening for such acts as the Benevento Russo Duo and The Avett Brothers, recording sessions with Pete Seeger and Richie Havens, and playing a multitude of shows in the Northeastern United States.
This music draws on countless influences, and the borrowing and blending of musical elements result in an original sound to which most listeners reply with an affecting familiarity. The album opens with "You Are A Ghost," a haunting jazz-club ballad blending the lyrical style of Tom Waits and Sylvia Plath with the music of Billie Holiday and John Lennon, among others. A sombre tone is blended with vague hopefulness in the song "Bay of Naples," which pulls you in with its unhurried pulse, hinting at the lo-fi vibe of Iron and Wine. As the album progresses, songs are sung with humor and lightness such as the musical free-for-all of "I'll Never Know." "Old Man River" tells the story of an estranged marriage with a twist of murder and revenge. And so it goes through to the final notes, varied and astounding musical constructions coupled with clever lyrical depictions and impressions that wander from innocence to darkness, with skillful and unforeseen fulfillments that leave you wanting more.
Instrumentation
Eric Margan: Singer/Songwriter, Musical Arrangements, Flute, Guitar, Piano, Bass
Rick Spataro: Guitar, Keyboards, Vocals
Scott Kellerhouse: Bass, Guitar
Jim Bertini: Drums
Discography
Eric Margan & The Red Lions � Midnight Book / 2009 Self / 12 Tracks /
Links