Ray LaMontagne - Got the Stuff


Last night I went to see Ray LaMontagne in Seattle. What a great artist! That guy has soul - right from the center of his core. Somewhere between Joe Cocker and Aretha Franklin on the soule scale, with his own appreciation of life's ups and downs thrown in. Great voice, and he can really convey emotion. He is currently on tour, and I would encourage all to check out his music and consider catching a concert while he's currently out and about. Here is his website.
peter_s
My wife and I joined Peter and his friend for that concert, and I'll echo the sentiments: Fantastic concert. A soulful and powerful artist. I would put him more as a cross between Iron & Wine and Damien Rice..perhaps a bit of Elliot Smith, yes with a hefty dose of Joe Cocker to really belt out the emotion. Some of his strength comes in the form of a very strong contrast, in that his demeanor is one of a shy (almost painfully so), quiet, and thoughtful person. It was really annoying to hear the crowd trying to chide him on to speak more in the breaks between his songs. When he performs it is the polar opposite of what you might expect, given his demeanor. He admits, in an interview, that he doesn't consider himself as an "entertainer", but instead as a songwriter. He may not fill the spaces between the songs with witty repartee, like some other performers might, but let me tell you he will stir your emotions and get you moving with his songs! Highly recommended!!! Both his albums, "Trouble" and "Till the Sun Turns Black" are wonderful, the latter being a bit more subdued. The band he performed with here in Seattle was tight as a drum! If he comes to your town definitely try to catch the performance.

Marco
I own both of his cds and really like his music. After I saw him on Austin City Limits I knew I wanted to buy some of his music. I hope to have the chance to see him in person.
PS The opening act, David Ford, was also fantastic and received a largely standing ovation for his innovative solo performance. Also a very passionate singer, he uses the layering of very simple acoustic loops to create a He is accompanying Ray L tonight in Vancouver, BC, but then that's his last night with the tour. I'm going to have to check out his CD's...anyone familiar with his music?

Marco