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It’s remarkable to me just how many amazing new musicians there seem to be today than in yesteryear. Quite possibly there aren’t really more but there sure seem to be thanks largely to the Internet revolution that’s occurring around us while you read this. There are also so many more tools at the hands of artists than there used to be. The problem is that in some ways it’s more difficult to get a light shined on any one artist simply because of the explosion of talent.
There are certainly exceptions to this observation, quite notably the band The Black Keys right from our own backyard in Akron. As you probably know, the duo of Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney met while studying at the University of Akron. Now they are one of the most popular and influential bands in the World. My son who is studying in Copenhagen this semester says that The Black Keys are huge in Europe. He knows this because he proudly wears his “Black Keys – Akron, Ohio” shirt all the time.
I’m happy to report that, as much as I love The Black Keys (I went with my son to see them at the sold-out Q earlier this year), I believe I have found another amazing musician, ironically from the same University and from the same timeframe, who truly might outshine the latest offerings from The Black Keys right here in Cleveland. That person is Chris Hatton and the album that absolutely blows me away is his latest offering, “The Beard Album”.
I’m going to preface my critique of the album by saying that this is a real and soulful album that discusses adult topics. “…A million dollars couldn’t chase those demons away. Every vacation you take they’ll still be right by your side” from the song “Kouldn’t We” (Nobody said that he’s a great speller:) is an example of the depth that he goes. This guy has done some hard living in his 32 years and it is brought to the surface in his words.
One of the beautiful aspects of “The Beard Album” is that it’s just that, an album, one that weaves pain and loss together with love and hope. The album ebbs and flows with spectacular lyrics accompanied by killer riffs throughout. One song smoothly glides into the next thanks to excellent production work. Chris has a very cool, hip vibe that resonates from one track to the next.
While definitely in the rock category, blues are always lurking right below the surface of Chris’ songs. There’s a funk influence that’s strong and pervasive, as well. Chris, who teaches at the School of Rock in Cleveland, demonstrates mastery over a number of different instruments, but none more than the good old electric guitar! Boy, he sure can lay down the licks with that instrument. There are also some other excellent musicians assisting Chris on this album, notably the saxophonist who is just sensational.
Chris is going to be performing with his latest band, The Italian Sound Machine, on the main stage at Brothers Lounge in Cleveland on December 1st. Do yourself a favor and get out and see this amazing local product in person. While you’re there pick up a copy of “The Beard Album”, for a bargain $7 none the less, and see a great example of why rock music is alive and well in Cleveland in 2012.
For more on Chris Hatton and his music check out his site at chrishattonmusic.com - Cleveland Rock N Roll
Discography
The Beard Album 2012
My New EP 2011
N' Them 2011
all released on Analog Beard Recordings.
Photos
Bio
Chris Hatton doesn’t believe in genres. In fact, he doesn’t even know what the word means. Whether going full on electric with his band, The Italian Sound Machine, or looping sleazy grooves as a solo acoustic act, Chris is a musical chameleon, drawing from a multitude of influences and bending styles to create one unique sound.
In October of 2011, Chris decided to focus completely on making music. He quit his cushy office job and moved into a house with a recording studio. There, he spent 7 months writing, recording, and producing his latest LP, titled The Beard Album, which was released in August 2012 on Analog Beard Records.
“My goal was to retain the original feeling that was the catalyst for each song”, says Hatton. “In order to capture that emotion, I recorded the songs as soon as possible after they were conceived. No click tracks or digital editing was done to any of the album.”
Tracks like Medicine truly embody the organic vibe of the Beard Album recording sessions. “The drum track was recorded in one take by Tommy Rich, who had only listened to the song once” explains Hatton.
Hatton describes the song Automatic as a stream of conscious tune, written in real time. This track is one of several on the album to feature horns, played by Italian Sound Machine member Bettyjeane Quimby. “Her saxophone added a really beautiful filthiness to the album.”
Prior to The Beard Album, there has never been a shortage of music in Chris’s life. Working with various bands over the last decade, Chris has released nearly an album a year including, but not limited to: The Lament of The Betrayed Chosen, My New EP, and N’them.
Current solo shows showcase Chris acting as a one man band, by utilizing a technique known as looping. On stage by himself, he blends and combines sounds and textures, harmonies and backgrounds to grow songs before your eyes. Each handclap, guitar tap, beatbox, shaker, and guitar riff combine to add layers of music to both originals and covers.
Chris Hatton currently makes his living as a musician. He will continue, indefinitely, to fulfill his cosmic obligation of performing and recording music.
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