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:

More reviews tagged #Folk

  • reviewed 02/2017

    Scott Nolan
    Silverhill

  • reviewed 07/2010

    BRANDI CARLILE
    Give up the Ghost

  • reviewed 05/2012

    LEE BAINES III & THE GLORY FIRES
    There Is A Bomb In Gilead

  • reviewed 09/2011

    JOY KILLS SORROW
    This Unknown Science

  • reviewed 06/2012

    KELLY HOGAN
    I Like to Keep Myself in Pain

  • reviewed 12/1969

    AUDREY AULD MEZERA
    LOST MEN AND ANGRY GIRLS

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.