Music
Press
(Article on Dan's former band)
Mellowship "Easy Sailing"
Come on and take a ride with Mellowship.This young five-piece will take you on an interesting journey through a rich topography of rock, funk, bluegrass and more. Formed as a trio six years ago, the group has gradually developed into an enticing outfit that mangages to blend mellow and muscular sounds. There's an undeniably upbeat and feel-good vibe to its sound, which the band says is meant to celebrate life. Bright and breezy songs and rolling melodies are intrinsic elements but there's also some tasty instrumental embellishments. Especially nice are the percolating rhythmic elements and the tasteful sax and guitar work. - Relix
April 29, 2005
ARAPAHOE BASIN - This season's powder-filled party at Arapahoe Basin just got a little better. This Sunday marks the first of the Shakin' at the Basin series, which is a sequence of free live music entertainment throughout the month of May.
Dan Walker and the Sky
With a voice like James Taylor and guitar styling similar to the Allman Brothers Band, Dan Walker brings a new approach to classic rock. Texas native Dan Walker will be kicking off this May's "Shakin' at the Basin," at A-Basin on Sunday. His band is called Dan Walker and the Sky, and they recently released their debut album called "Night Owl," which features the band's enticing blend of funk, rock, Americana and blues.
Walker moved to Denver last July, and in September, his newly-formed band won the Acoustic Blues competition at the Telluride Blues and Brew festival. "Things have really gone well; people in the community have been really cool. This has really opened doors for us," Walker said. Following his win at the festival, Walker has been working with different musicians in the Denver area. His new album features Adam Stern on lead guitar (formerly of Henry Parsons project), Spanky McCluer on bass, and Chris Helvey on drums (formerly of T-Benoit and the Shuckers.
Walker's influences include the Grateful Dead, Bob Dylan, Widespread Panic, the Talking Heads, Paul Simon and Jack Johnson. "We head up into the mountains to play about once a month or so ... it's really great here. I was in Dallas before where everybody has to fend for themselves, and it's definitely not like that here. Everyone is really cool," Walker said.
- Summit Daily
Discography
Night Owl - full-length debut released April 2005
Mellowship - self-titled CD of former band 2003
Photos
Feeling a bit camera shy
Bio
With a voice as smooth as silk, a mean bottleneck slide and songwriting comparable to that of John Denver or Dave Matthews - what’s not to love? Dan “dDub” Walker brings all that and more when he steps onto the stage with his electric incarnation (Dan Walker and the Sky) or acoustic project (dDubSky).
More than just a man and his guitar, Walker writes songs of love and life- with compelling themes and stories wrapped around sophisticated progressions. Weaving intelligent lyrics through seamless rhythms comes naturally for this singer/songwriter who pens songs with depth, emotion, and honest feelings to which any audience could relate.
It doesn’t stop there for the Texas native. With every step along his path, he has picked up a new flavor for his music. While attending college in New Orleans, he picked up the funk and zest for life that inevitably seeps into the souls of those who live there. He pulls a slice of Americana from his time growing up in Texas. With a move to Denver in 2004, one can hear a respect for nature’s wonders incorporate itself into Walker’s songwriting.
This songwriting is just one aspect of Walker’s talent. Playing both solo and with a band presents a unique opportunity for Walker to showcase his many abilities. When sharing the stage with a rotating cast of musicians, dDub’s improvisational skills shine. When sharing the stage with only his instruments, Walker is a whole new monster. Playing on a loop on many songs, Walker builds his “dDubSky” show around solid acoustic guitar rhythms. He keeps the loop underneath, adding harmonica, vocals, lead guitar, and a host of other instruments.
His hard work and talent was rewarded when he won the Acoustic Blues Competition at the 2004 Telluride Blues and Brews Festival. He made a return performance in 2005, playing on Sunday’s Main Stage before Joan Osborne and Al Green.
Dan “dDub” Walker is a full-package musician. Between stellar musicianship and memorable song writing, Walker has found the winning combination; a combination that taps the feet and sways the body of his audiences bringing music lovers of all ages and genres together.
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