Music Response Essay Example

Tra Le Gael

The Dirty Shame
It is difficult to classify The Dirty Shame by any particular genre because their music is a blended mix of outlaw country, rock, blues, honky-tonk, and Celtic music. As I listened to this group, it was easy to hear the influences of Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, David Allan Coe, and other outlaw country. The band easily pulled off the nostalgic nuances of an earlier time in country music that saw much of this theme throughout the course of their performance. Even the wailing sound of the steel guitar added a nice element to the band’s musical styling. The band also showcased an edgier sound to their music that bordered on rock more than outlaw country. At best, The Dirty Shame is a one-size-fits-all band that aims to please all types of music fans.

Little Jane & the Pistol Whips

Little Jane & the Pistol Whips blend country, folk, and Americana to form their own unique sound that is impressive. The five-member band is helmed by lead singer, Ashly Holland. Holland has written most of the band’s tunes. Their performance boasts of great musical collaboration met by some incredibly talented musicians. They played a vast array of tempos that ranged from slow and easy to upbeat and fast-moving which showcased the band’s great talent. Their overall sound is reminiscent of that heard in the 1970s when country music was rich in steel guitars and upright basses.
Alex Nauman Trio The Alex Nauman Trio is a jazz funk ensemble based out of Billings, Montana. The trio incorporates guitar, drums, and the unique infusion of a C-3 organ to make music that has a rock edge with traditional jazz stylings. What makes this trio so unique is their music does not include vocals. Instead, the band shows off their impeccable raw talent and playing abilities by breaking out into a jam session that found me jamming right along with them. With musical talent this good, vocals would almost take away the effect of their musical presence. What was most impressive about this band is the fact that they sounded like they had been playing together for decades. The kind of talent they possess can be learned and taught, but it takes more than learned skill to create a magical sound that gels for the listener. The Alex Nauman Trio has what it takesand then some.

The Songwriters

The Songwriters are just that; songwriters and good ones at that. The band is comprised of songwriters, Chris Cundy, Rick Winking, and Gregory Lind, who have been writing music for years. They decided to put all there mad skills to work and form the band to showcase their talent and writing ability. Their music borrows influences from jazz, funk, rock, and hip-hop; making The Songwriters a versatile band that provides an easy-listening experience that is throwback to the 1960s era. Diehard fans of that era of music will love this band.

Christmas Favorites

This is perhaps my favorite video of all reviewed because I am a huge fan of Christmas music. This was a rare treat that 11th & Grant offered its viewers on Montana PBS. This special holiday edition of the show, highlighted many of the great artists that have been guests on the show over the course of its existence, performing favorite holiday tunes and Christmas carols. The program showcased many different musical genres that ranged from jazz to folk to rock/pop. It was an enjoyable treat to watch and made me long for the coming holiday season. This is a special that would put anyone in the holiday spirit.

John Floridis

John Floridis is a solo artist that performs both vocal and instrumental pieces. His musical style is comprised of a mixed infusion of jazz, funk, Motown, R&B, and pop-rock. As a one-man show, Floridis is quite the accomplished musician and made me forget that he did not have a full band backing him in those moments he was not accompanied by his band. His vocals had a rich, edgy sound reminiscent of Bob Seger. He is perhaps one of the most talented performers that 11th & Grant has had on their show.

Craig Hall Quartet

The Craig Hall Quartet is a jazz ensemble that has taken the traditional jazz sound of days gone by and added their own contemporary spin to it. As an instrumental group, they are quite accomplished musicians. The focal point of the group is Hall and his outstanding guitar playing. There are interludes throughout each performance that allows each of the musicians in this group to showcase their talent. Their sound is indicative of seasoned musicians who gel together well. They complement each other so well which shines through in their music and incredible sound giving listeners a pleasant musical experience.