CHADWICK STOKES

Simmerkane II

2011-08-29

Songwriter Chadwick Stokes has created a solo effort in folk. The concept of Simmerkane II appears to be a couple of vagabonds riding the rails, spilling their stories. Stokes previously formed the band Hermit Thrush and later Dispatch. He is currently frontman for State Radio. Simmerkane II is produced and mixed by John Dragonetti (originally from Jackson, MI). Songs recommended (in order of preference) are “Insulin,” “Rainsong,” “Crowbar Hotel,” “Coffee and Wine.” “Rainsong” – soft rolling harmonized love song which features a ‘spaced-out farfisa’ and cool sounds. “Insulin” is tight guitar picking and vocal harmony – you’ll think you’re listening to Paul Simon. “Religion on the Rails” – soulful echo effects stretch out the vocals. “Black Bottle” is a great sing-along bar chorus “don’t drink the black bottle cause it won’t get you anywhere…if you wanna take the westbound train to is no more.” “Spider and Gioma” – what a treat this story-song is! This could spin-off to be a children’s book. Carly Simon contributed background vocals to this acoustical treasure. Bonus tracks recorded at Kissypig Studios in Boston features Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars. “Coffee and Wine” – fun folk story with an upbeat chorus. “All My Possessions” features a reggae island beat - Pam VandeKerkhoff

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Folk

  • reviewed 03/2007

    Martin Sexton
    Seeds

  • reviewed 09/2010

    Railroad Earth
    Railroad Earth

  • reviewed 11/2009

    INARA GEORGE
    Accidental Experimental

  • reviewed 10/2008

    TOM MORELLO, THE NIGHTWATCHMAN
    The Fabled City

  • reviewed 11/2006

    STING
    Songs from the Labyrinth

  • reviewed 12/1969

    INGRID MICHAELSON
    BE OK

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.