Mike Neff

Some musicians wear earnestness like a badge, and it becomes as much a pose as anything KISS has ever done. But, LOS DOS AND THE NEW AMERICAN RAMBLERS are the genuine article, with no need for airs, and that quality has meant that the act has flown largely under the radar since its inception in 2003. Songwriters Mike Neff and Charles von Rosenberg clearly draw inspiration from any legendary folk artist you could name, and, superficially, they may remind you of any generic Americana band that comes to mind. What's far from generic though, is the fact that this duo's deceptively simple music, steeped in the patois of traditional blues, seems as refreshingly original as that of its forbears. On stage, LOS DOS deliver a lively show that's generous with passion and conviction. - 1/24/09 WESTWORD Critic's Choice (Tom Murphy) - Westword Weekly, Denver, CO.

Mike Neff makes a stranger smile In a town like Denver, you should never underestimate the power of serendipity. On more than one occasion, I’ve been out wandering the city, on my way to something or other and have ended up stumbling on a remarkable musical experience. When I arrived – admittedly late and having missed Bad Weather California and Jen Korte – singer-songwriter Mike Neff was just taking the stage with his project, Los Dos and the New American Ramblers. I’ve heard of Neff, of course, but had never had the good fortune of catching him live. I’ve been meaning to, but haven’t gone out of my way to make it happen. As I’ve often admitted, I’m a sucker for a flashy performance and a truly original sound, and Mr. Neff brought neither of those things with his sincere take on Americana. However, with special help from Andy Wild on bass, the charismatic performer absolutely captivated me – as well as the rest of the well-lubricated crowd – with his honest songwriting, earnest emoting and beautifully tarnished vocals. Quoting Flatlander Butch Hancock, Neff’s MySpace page says he just wants to see some smiling faces on his friends. That night, he got some smiles out of complete strangers like me as well. 10/24/08 WESTWORD Backbeat Online (Dave Herrera) - Westword Weekly, Denver, CO.