Joe Myers
Joe Myers writes ferociously original music.
In his hands the solo guitar becomes an entire ensemble as he hammers away at his strings with the aplomb of a born percussionist, and evokes at once the short verse of Nick Drake, the energy of The Dave Matthews Band, and the song writing sensibilities of David Crosby. "Six-string vituosos are a dime a dozen these days, but the torent of notes that Joe Myers is able to coax from his guitar tends to qualify more as slieght of hand than mere musicianship," says the Phoenix New Times. "He paints incredible complex landscapes for a solo artist. He's the magic man." Myers has recently returned to the Phoenix area and his devoted fans after a two year stint in New York City where he lived in the historic Hotel Chelsea, recording his most recent album.
His performances at Lincoln Center, Village Jazz Fest and The Bitter End stunned New York audiences. His original song writing, exotic tunings and world-class gift for phrasing and texture establish him as a formidable musical force where ever he performs. Myers grew up in Indiana listening to Motown and other 60's and 70's pop rock. His most personal influence was his brother's band, and by age six Myers was ably playing the guitar. He started crossing musical boundaries early on, exploring Michael Hedges, Chet Atkins, and of course The Beatles. "A lot of people who say the Beatles were an influence for the do sound like The Beatles," says Myers. "I don't. But their sensibilities are all over my music." This versatility has led him to work in film, festivals, dance, and production projects. He has long worked in tandem with renowned composer Brent Michael Davids (Kronos Quartet, Joffrey Ballet), creating original scores for The Maida Withers Dance Ensemble and performing live at the World Premier of "Silent Enemy" at the 1996 Santa Fe Film Fest. He has shared the stage with Tori Amos, Adrian Belew, The Beach Boys, Warren Zevon and a list of other talented artists. Myers' originality extends to this CD-packaging approach. He's released his discs in cardboard sleeves, handmade wooden boxes and round tin canisters. Like his discs, Myers' music can't be put in a one-size-fits-all box. |
Troubled Notes From The Hotel Chelsea (2004) | |||
Yes, this time around it's a giant-sized matchbook! On to the music . . . well, Joe describes this as his first
"non-fiction" album. It was written and recorded during his family's stay
at the Hotel Chelsea between June 2000 and October 2001. So, after listening
to the album, you will probably have a good idea whether or not you'd like
to spend time there on your next visit to New York City. |
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out of print |
Under The Crazy Hat (1996) | ||
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out of print |
House With Nine Rooms (1991) | ||
Click on the song title to download a portion of the song in mp3 format. |
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$39 (CD) |