Tom Bolton
This may be one of those folk artists/songwriters who is hidden or unknown to a wide audience. What a shame that more of these seriously talented performers don’t get the recognition they deserve.
Bolton’s When I Cross the River, independently produced in 2007, has some fine songs for the lover of traditional music and folk music with a twist. “silver” is particularly nice tune to listen to. No earth-moving here, unless it happens to be the song is adopted by a loving couple who will always remember it as “our song.”
Bolton released a first album called Acoustic Caravan” in 2003. He has made some changes since that time, with “whose army” an example of what can be done with real talent and some creativity. Bolton is ably assisted by Richard Grace on what is affectionately and traditionally called “double bass.” That acoustic sound is like no other. You have to check out “Sweet Days” even if you aren’t a fan of acoustic folk.
Here are some great words from his Web site that tell much of the Bolton/Grace tale. “In 2006, having played solo gigs for a number of years, he was joined onstage by Richard Grace. Tom’s soaring vocals and sparse acoustic guitar, accompanied by Richard’s deep-velvet double-bass and harmonies, have earned them a reputation as engaging performers at folk and acoustic venues around Australia.”
Tags: independent music, indie, indie music, music, Tom Bolton
Anyone thinking George Hearst in HBO’s Deadwood?
He doesn’t sound much like he looks, does he? He’s sounding like those 80’s or even 70’s folksingers. My dad would’ve loved him. The ‘Sweet Days’ guitar solo sounds wonderful but the rest of his songs are a bit too slow for my taste.
What I have felt that though the numbers are with a touch of 70’s and 80’s style, they still sound good to me.I am really fond of that genre too.The Sweet Days and Whose Army both songs are my favorite ones.There is a marked originality in the music as well as the lyrics and that is quite commendable.
I was taken a back listening to Tom Bolton. I wasn’t expecting to hear folk music that was actually appealing. The instrumentals are right on and the his lyrical styling and voice bring it all together. A wonderful soothing experience that you can just lie back and be at ease. I really enjoyed the music this artist has put out so far. Can’t wait to hear more of it!
At least Tom Bolton keeps true to his style. His not a young one that made a poor choice of genres to play in, he has been with the genre from, like, forever. His music is honest, and yes, I agree with illytodd this time: this is something that my father would listen to.
Tom Bolton’s “Hey You, Yeah You” is just right for me. This song is more upbeat unlike his others songs that were too slow for me. This song is relaxing, thank you for his soft voice. Compared to his other songs that were too slow that made me sleep. Did not quite have my attention.
I have always admired singers who write their own songs, it shows the singer’s desire to connect with the audience. By their own written songs, singers can convey to the listeners their own experiences and show their personality. I really like Tom Bolton’s lyrics, it has the feel of a beautiful poem being sung. And it doesn’t hurt that he has a great singing voice. I enjoyed listening to some of his songs and look forward to hearing more good music from this Aussie.