Stephen Bruton

It was a real treat to get a chance to hear Stephen's music again on the cruise. For all of the acts that focus on providing really good time dancing, partying musical experience . . . it is great to have someone whose lyrics I want to hear . . . who has some profound and honest things to say in his music. Not that his isn't fun . . . it is! . . . it's that he has evolved from an outstanding guitar player for a multitude of artists over the last 30 years to a songwriter/performer with a distinctive perspective and voice. Having Stephen and some of the other songwriters perform provides an opportunity to listen to the words . . . because, as much as I love the physical experience of the performances, I have always gravitated to quality songwriting that I can connect with. Stephen Bruton, more than any other artist on the cruise, filled that bill for me.

SB and band

Besides the great lyrics, his music weaves in elements of jazz, funk, and rhythm and blues . . . a rhythmic mix that was laid down by a very solid band that included Red Young on piano, Debra Dobkin on percussion, and Brannen Temple on drums . . . and of course Stephen, who is one of the most outstanding and tasteful guitar players anywhere. I thoroughly enjoyed every one of his sets.

If you are not familiar with Bruton's music, you should pick up his new CD - Spirit World - and check out his web site . . . . There's also a great article about him in the latest edition of No Depression , an excellent music magazine.

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