David Bromberg

WHAT THE PRESS IS WRITING ABOUT
DAVID BROMBERG’S “USE ME”

“Bromberg . . . makes every track shine, like the A-list session man he’s always been.” – Will Hermes, Rolling Stone

“Great session players easily cross genres, and guitarist Bromberg is one of the great ones. For proof, look at his rootsy new concept album Use Me, for which Bromberg also sings solid lead vocals backed by the big-name collaborators he approached to write and/or produce songs. . . .And all of it’s a terrific listen.”
– Bill Beutler, Boston Globe

“. . . Use Me – [Bromberg’s] second release since ending a long studio silence in 2007 – fnds him in a feisty mood, assured and as focused as ever. . . . His impassioned playing and surly vocals summon the spirits of Howlin’ Wolf and Muddy Waters, and various big-name guests . . . eagerly tag along as well. He may be best known as a multitalented sideman, but Use Me proves that Bromberg needn’t cede the spotlight.” – Lee Zimmerman, M: Music & Musicians

“This…may be the best recording he’s ever done. . . .The ever-humble Bromberg continues to astound us with his mastery.” – Jim Hynes, Elmore

“If you like Bromberg, or merely think you might like Bromberg, it’s a sure thing you’ll like this.” – Eric Alterman, The Nation

“All eleven tracks are a delightful romp through familiar terrain for David, terrain that he navigates with the expertise and energy of a Formula 500 driver. . . . This second Appleseed release perfectly showcases David's off-kilter, sandpaper-silk voice, his amazing skill on various stringed instruments, from violin to banjo, and his overall bluesy, jug band flavor.” – Sonya Alexander, San Francisco Examiner.com

“. . . a wondrous potpourri of music. (Rating: 9 out of 10)” – Philip Smith, Blues Revue

“. . . a roots smorgasbord that showcases Bromberg's impressive range . . . he [has] an engagingly unaffected manner and know how to get to the heart of a song. (3 of 4 stars)” – Nick Cristiano, Philadelphia Inquirer, McClatchy-Tribune Syndicate

“A sublime platter that finds Bromberg collaborating with a host of high-profile friends. . . . Every song is a gem, with Bromberg bringing down the curtain with a stirring rendition of the title track made famous by Bill Withers. Fantastic from beginning to end. (4½ stars)” – Jeffrey Sisk, Pittsburgh, PA, Daily News

“Bromberg is simply one of the finest musicians you’ll ever hear . . . the guests here are big fun . . . but it’s Bromberg’s brilliant playing, and the inherent sense of humor embedded in most of the tunes, that make it beyond special. An artist who is the embodiment of the phrase “world-class musician” Bromberg does not disappoint.” – David Malachowski, Daily Freeman, Kingston, NY

(cont.)
“. . . A fantastic album with a title that perfectly chosen. An impressive list of prominent guest musicians play with deep respect from the renowned pioneer roots on this record. There is much to enjoy. . .” – Johan Schoenmakers, AltCountryForum, The Netherlands

“An outstanding mix of bluegrass, country, R&B, and blues that’s united by Bromberg’s soulful picking, quirky vocals, and emotional connection to the music, regardless of the genre.” – Andy Ellis, Premier Guitar

“[Bromberg] surround[s] himself with a duet dream team of . . . Levon Helm, Linda Ronstadt, John Hiatt, Tim O’Brien, Dr. John, Widespread Panic, Vince Gill, Los Lobos and Keb Mo. . . . they can all still swing. The playing is impeccable and the spirit of those great old rootsy 1970s sessions shines through.” – Chris Jorgenson, Billings, MT, Gazette

“. . . a sprawling feast.” – Tom Clarke, Hittin’ the Note

“Here is David Bromberg saying to some of his favorite singer/songwriters ‘use me, either write a song or pick one out we can do together.’ His taste in these musicians, as you might guess is wide-ranging . . . As you would expect there is consistently outstanding playing throughout the songs. . . . This is one of the most fitting album titles I have yet come across; Use Me, and not only is he used, but he is well used and this is about as good as it gets, one fantastic disc with the constant of excellence in all ways running thorough it.” – Bob Gottlieb, Folk & Acoustic Music Exchange

“A variety of big name guests (Dr. John, Levon Helm, John Hiatt, Los Lobos, Widespread Panic etc.) turn up throughout the album, but aside from some nods in the liner notes and a few stylistic concessions, they remain all but anonymous while allowing Bromberg to steal the spotlight.
That's appropriate. As its title suggests, Use Me offers a lesson in how to stay true to one's muse.” – Lee Zimmerman, Blurt

“. . . unusual variety and remarkable quality in the songs and musicianship. There are heavenly-sweet vocal harmonies, biting and/or rapid-fire guitar runs, funky grooves to make you itch, and, as always, Bromberg’s seriocomic bluesman persona, which has earned him a devoted following for 40-plus years. It’s an album full of highlights - Various