ART GOMPEREZ BAND

A Different Story To Tell

2013-03-16

Michigander bluegrass/Americana collective Art Gomperez Band has existed for decades as a musical revolving door of sorts for musicians. But on their album A Different Story to Tell, the group has a stronger focus: bringing to life the music of their late friend and songwriter Bev Hahn. And to that extent they succeed. The band's technical proficiency is definitely on display, especially on tracks like "Spanish Grass" or "Court in Session" that illustrate the band's ability to jam. Jenna Mammina gracefully sings to the propelling bluegrass rhythm or more laid-back Americana, with simple, but well-crafted lyrics about common reflections in life. The album itself can be described as well-crafted, but not overly complicated; a kind of aesthetic sense that's seems to be a trait of bluegrass. For the uninitiated, this album may prove to be a good starting point, ultimately holding a small sweetness in its simplicity. - Jacqueline Ristola

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Folk

  • reviewed 12/2003

    Original Soundtrack
    Cold Mountain

  • reviewed 06/2006

    JEREMIAH LOCKWOOD
    American Primitive

  • reviewed 03/2008

    Joel Mabus
    Retold

  • reviewed 09/2006

    THAT’S HIM, THAT’S THE GUY!
    Help Me I'm on Fire

  • reviewed 11/2009

    TUNE-YARDS
    Bird-Brains

  • reviewed 01/2017

    John Craigie
    No Rain, No Rose

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.