CHADWICK STOKES

Simmerkane II

2011-08-29

Songwriter Chadwick Stokes has created a solo effort in folk. The concept of Simmerkane II appears to be a couple of vagabonds riding the rails, spilling their stories. Stokes previously formed the band Hermit Thrush and later Dispatch. He is currently frontman for State Radio. Simmerkane II is produced and mixed by John Dragonetti (originally from Jackson, MI). Songs recommended (in order of preference) are “Insulin,” “Rainsong,” “Crowbar Hotel,” “Coffee and Wine.” “Rainsong” – soft rolling harmonized love song which features a ‘spaced-out farfisa’ and cool sounds. “Insulin” is tight guitar picking and vocal harmony – you’ll think you’re listening to Paul Simon. “Religion on the Rails” – soulful echo effects stretch out the vocals. “Black Bottle” is a great sing-along bar chorus “don’t drink the black bottle cause it won’t get you anywhere…if you wanna take the westbound train to is no more.” “Spider and Gioma” – what a treat this story-song is! This could spin-off to be a children’s book. Carly Simon contributed background vocals to this acoustical treasure. Bonus tracks recorded at Kissypig Studios in Boston features Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars. “Coffee and Wine” – fun folk story with an upbeat chorus. “All My Possessions” features a reggae island beat - Pam VandeKerkhoff

Quick Links:

• Chadwick Stokes webpage