| leere - An Introduction TESHUVA RECORDS
BACKGROUND: The band is fronted by Liverpool born singer/songwriter Simon Monaghan. Simon has collaborated with local musicians Paul Brook (drums/percussion/virtual instruments/ backing vocals) and Mark Yakes (tenor guitar/bass guitar/backing vocals), over the course of a year, arranging and recording material, culminating in 11 diverse tracks for the album. Tim Shakespeare (acoustic/electric guitar) and Jon Priestley (acoustic/electric guitar) brought their own creativity and talent to bear on the project in the final few months. It is hoped that all the musicians involved will feature for live dates. DETAILS: The result of their efforts is a melodious and highly listenable album, encompassing a broad range of musical styles with a very definite acoustic feel. The lush harmonies and string arrangements provide an ideal backdrop for the harsher vocal delivery of Monaghan. The opening track "St Catherine", a song based on a visit to a tiny chapel in Derbyshire, sets the scene, leading into the upbeat pop of "People Poured Out" and taking us through ballad, light country swing and delicate jazz, to the Lennonesque finale of "My New York Of This Isle". Influenced in songwriting by the likes of Hank Williams, R.E.M and Van Morrison, leere (Monaghan et al.) have completed a very respectable and honest debut. For more information please visit www.leere.co.uk |