John Ralston
What is it with the soft, clear voices of these young "solo" artists? John Ralston, Andy Davis, and so on…these guys are a pleasure to listen to, if for no other reason than their voices remind some older dogs of what their vocals once sounded like. That is, if those old dogs could do more than howl.
White Spiders 2008 Vagrant Records) is easy to listen to, though it may be a bit more than easy listening. Ralston hails from Lake Worth, Florida and brings some of the Sunshine State’s well, sunshine, to the north country, with help from band members Jeff Snow, Dan Bonebrake and Nick Eberhardt.
White Spiders, is folk music/rock ballad, for those unfamiliar with this performer. Background vocals lend a bit of mystery to this already mysterious love song. It may not be to everyone’s taste, but this style will attract a solid percentage of listeners.
"Second Hand Lovers" (Sorry Vampire 2007 Vagrant Records) is a stronger song, both in music construction and in the passion of Ralston’s voice. "Fragile" from the same CD provides a bit different feel. Check this group out in London, Sheffield, Glasgow, Liverpool, Portsmouth etc. in April.
Tags: indie, indie music, John Ralston, music, independent music
He’s definitely easy on the eyes and has a nice style, but more importantly his smooth voice is wonderful. I listened to every song, and I personally can’t pick a favorite. “White Spiders” is a bit different, but the background vocals make this song worth listening to over and over (along with the lyrics such as “White Spiders are spinning across the walls/They are building an Empire, waiting for us to fall”). “Jenny with the Long Dark Hair” will probably become a huge hit in its own time. All songs though are worth a listen. It is definitely not for some of the more hard edge listeners, but I was please for the most part.
I have heard him before and thought that he had a soft sound that is easy to listen to. I like the fact that new artists are coming out with the soft easy sounds that once were done by few. I think that once they prove themselves with their music they will go a long way.
I have to agree that ” Jenny with the Long Dark Hair” will probably be very popular. Good job and happy trails on the music trek.