Biography
With two highly rated albums under their belt, AntHill Society is achieving a fan propelled momentum in both live performance and album spin.
Their trademark 'Texas Soul' is unlike any style of music around. Granted, in it you will find inspirations from Rock, Blues, country and even a light seasoning of jazz. But the mix is total Jim Murray. The lyrical message - a direct communique to the heart of any listener.
Jim Murray’s AntHill Society is experiencing a phenomenal growth in fan base and industry buzz. They were featured on the cover of Action Magazine. (see News link above) The article read, “Like his music, Murray is bold, brash and unapologetic for anything…He has a rough-grain voice which reminds of Delbert McClinton…(AntHill Society) is probably the best new rock band in San Antonio.”
Matt Matlack of Space 380 Music Promotion said, “AntHill Society is like Santana doing the ‘Stray Cat Strut’ with the depth and soul of Robin Trower. These guys are truly ones to watch.”
Sandy Dorian of the New York Music Festival wrote: “I like your style of music. Definitely what we are looking for. Keep up the good work. You guys are definitely talented.”
Their debut album, Low Life, was released March of 2004 to an eager fan base. Low Life was a broad-scoped introduction to the Society style without relying on a common theme or message. Jim wanted to produce a montage of different styles from which he hoped to attract a diverse audience. The album is now available in music stores and on line. Currently, radio stations regionally and out of state are giving it play.
AntHill Society returns to the studio in December to begin production on their next album, Short of the Blues. The second album will feature 11 of Jim’s latest works tending towards a more grass roots feel and Texas rock drive for which he is becoming popular.
Jim’s Anthill Society consists of Jim Murray singing Lead and playing guitar; Matt Gilmore on Lead Guitar and backing vocals; Jerry Winkler on Bass; and Craig Rainey on Drums and backing vocals.
As word grows about this great new sound from south central Texas so has the band’s burgeoning fan base. Society membership has expanded exponentially to the point that fans keep up with the band from all over the country. Recently, a radio station from Italy requested a copy of Low Life for regular rotation. A British radio station reported that the tune Just Add Alcohol (Low Life) was most requested in rotation.
Where will AntHill Society go from here? Industry experts agree straight up! The buzz is astounding. Audience response is unprecedented. What does Jim think? “This is a dream come true. My whole life has been preparation for doing this.”
Jim has been fortunate to be surrounded by tremendous on-stage talent and the love and respect of family, friends, and a loyal fan base. His on-stage persona is natural and his voice is uniquely suited for his music. With Jim what you see is what you get. He is honest and cares deeply that those who share in his music are given something heart-felt and real. Every fan has his or her favorite tune; a song which has a connection to them individually. Jim’s music is inspired by his life experiences, relayed with a style and turn of phrase that creates a picture in the listener’s mind. It is rare that a songwriter has the gift of both catchy melodies and powerful lyrics. Jim Murray’s AntHill Society is the embodiment of life and art.
Instrumentation
Jim Murray: Lead Vocals/Guitars
Matt Gilmore: Vocals/Guitars
Jerry Winkler: Bass Guitar
Craig Rainey: Vocals/Drums
Discography
2006 "LowLife"
2007 "Short of the Blues"
Audio clips available at the link below:
http://music.download.com/anthillsociety/3600-8933_32-100465679.html?tag=listing_song_artist
All songs are original compositions by Jim Murray.
Links
| http://www.jamesrobertmurray.com |
| AntHill Society MySpace Page |
| Jim Murray's MySpace Page |
| Craig Rainey's MySpace Page |