Douglas Witmer
« Weblog Home | back from richmond » | spend time with me in richmond » | done » | autumn color » | it looks like a waterfall » | exhibition views » | opening night » | on the ground in oaxaca » | i shouldn't, but » | gallery siano invitation »
Monday, December 18, 2006
last minute gift (for yourself & others)
I've plugged my younger brother Denison before. He's my musician brother, and, having myself nearly chosen to make my way in music rather than art, we've always been close. In fact, I often tell people that he's making the records I would have liked to have made had I continued with my music. But better of course. I'm happy to have been involved, giving a lot of critical listens, and also adding bits here and there over the years.
Denison turned 30 back in November, and came up with the brilliant idea to record 30 songs to give away from his website as a vehicle to raise money for two important charities. [UPDATE: Denison plays live Wednesday night in Philadelphia at World Cafe Live for the "Musicians On Call" benefit...more details here] The songs were recorded live, just him and his guitar, in a studio utilizing only one extremely sensitive microphone. He re-documents material from the last 8-10 years of his albums and there are also a few covers including a fantastic version of Nick Drake's "Northern Sky."
It's all here at: happybirthdaydenison.com
You can just listen, or download as well.
There are two things about these recordings--first, there are Denison's performances--his singing in particular is about the best I've heard him in recorded form. Second, there's a wonderful sense of intimacy--simultaneously you feel Denison playing these songs only for himself, and only for you.
Denison has also started to do some podcasts, and they're becoming available. The first one, about the impact of Nick Drake's music in his life, is excellent.
Give yourself a great gift: visit the site, download the songs, make a donation, and feel great.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
Labels: miscellany, music
18.12.06 