So after that elongated review of 2012; it is back to the bread and butter of the Eirecana blog. Another Irish artist producing some fine americana and alt-country tunes. This post is all about the relaxed styling of Tony Villiers.
Based in Armagh, Tony released his début album "Wild Mercury" in July of last year. I have been a bit slow in getting to Tony's music, something I regret now. Citing Bob Dylan as his chief influence, the music of Tony Villiers, to me is a bit more vibrant than Bob's. Moving from jaunty alt-country to meditative folk, the talent is evident in all his songs.
In fairness, you should not have to take my word on the quality of Tony's song writing. The song "If you let Your Sweetheart Go" was shortlisted for the American Songwriter magazine "Country Cut" series (where new song writers can submit a song for an established act to record). As well as that his tracks "Radio" was a finalist in the Nashville centred Unsigned Only competition with "The Last Waltz" receiving an honourable mention in the international song writing competition. Basically he's a quality songwriter. Of these award shortlisted songs, I quite enjoy "If you let Your Sweetheart Go". Starting out with a gentle intro, the song gathers pace into quality, warm country tune.
The album was recorded over 5 days in Jam studios in Kells, Co. Meath with The Midnights. It's an impressive mix of country, folk and americana influences. Apart from the Bob Dylan comparisons, in some ways Tony's music reminds me of Josh Ritter as it easily moving from radio friendly alt-country to more reflective sparse melodies. Another of the radio friendly tunes is "Strong Foundation". With a melody sounding like it was born on the Mexico border and lyrics reminiscent of Bob Dylan cryptic words, it's a song very easy to get into.
The album is available to buy on iTunes. You can check out Tony on his official site here which streams many of his songs. Also worth a gawk is the Facebook page for more immediate updates. His next live appearance is at the Belfast Nashville songwriters festival on February 20th.
Photo: Tony Villiers/ Twitter
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