Artist description In writing songs for his fourth CD, Woody Russell continues to honor his trademark sound; bittersweet melodies and highly praised, cinematic lyrics. Fiery and percussive finger-style guitar playing. Sophisticated, narrative songwriting. His work is not merely a stylistic cut and paste approach that lacks genuine conviction, but one in which the end result is a potent distillation of diverse musical ingredients. Woody is an uncommon musician who possesses an artistic singularity. He simply writes top-shelf tunes informed by folk and roots music, remaining the "sole purveyor of thinking man's Americana". "My intention is to walk the tightrope of being a precision tune-smith who knows when to stop at a deliberately rough hewn gem," says Woody. Since releasing 2002's, 'Time To Go', it's obvious that his ability to capture a mood, a character and a melody that sticks has matured. No recycled, unimaginative hooks here. The stories he brings to life are equal parts melancholy and humor. The characters are both the forgotten and the victorious. The lovers and the heartbroken. He writes of a social consciousness. He treads lightly in the philosophical. Occasionally he admits to being a helpless romantic and he always chooses to up the ante, taking a chance on creating some well penned magic.

Music Style Folk and roots-rock / Americana / Blues singer-songwriter-guitarist

Musical Influences Folk and roots, Celtic, jazz

Similar Artists Richard Thompson, Bruce Cockburn, Tom Waits, Mark Knopfler, Elvis Costello, Steve Earle, Van Morrison, an Irish version of Springsteen some say

Artist History Growing up in Montana, "Woody" Russell Wilson began playing guitar around the age of seven. In a small college town, amidst farmland and cattle ranches, he spent his formative, musically inclined youth. A move to Seattle found him touring extensively in the region, performing and recording with several different bands in throughout the nineties. Woody Russell's first independent release in 1996, '…as simple as that', was praised as "an outstanding debut." A largely acoustic album, it offers insight into his early portrayal of Americana. The eclectic 'A Thousand One-Eighties' followed in 1998. Last year's 'Time To Go' is an entirely self produced CD. One early review suggested that, "it's far from Russell's time to go, it's now time for him to arrive." Another called it, "A welcome viewpoint to the complexity of life and our willingness to accept it on our own terms." It's been embraced by critics and fans, continuing to catalog his evolution as a performing songwriter to be reckoned with. Most recently, Woody received an invitation to showcase his talents at the Nashville New Music Conference. Aside from the club tours and festival dates, he has entertained listeners while busking on the street corners of Seattle's famous Pike Place Market. He's been a guest on numerous television shows such as "Puget Sounds T.V." and "Northwest Music Scene". Several of his recordings have been used for radio P.S.A.'s, public television programs and synchronization with product advertisements. A steady performance schedule, as well as, an exceptional web site keeps him connected to his fans. In 2002 he relocated to Austin, Texas. Performing regularly in the region, Woody continues to expand into broader markets and reach larger audiences. He considers himself a "career, grassroots artist"; deeply respectful of the craft of songwriting and the discipline of performing.

Group Members Woody Russell: Guitars, vocals, bass, percussion, and every damn thing else Dan Frank: Drums, percussion; 1996-2002 James Burkman: Bass, backing vocals; 1996 to 2001 Anthony Palmeri: Drums on "3-5-8" and "Annie B'Damned" Lyle Long: Lead guitar on "Discontent"

Instruments guitars... lots of 'em

Albums as simple as that... , A Thousand One-Eighties, Time To Go

Press Reviews "Lyrics that paint a picture, mixed with skillful musicianship, it's far from Russell's time to go, it's now time for him to arrive. From the opening exclamation to the smooth 'Last Thing I Expected', Woody captivates the listener." -Platter Chatter, Jan. 2002 "Thinking man's Americana... Russell has a unique way of capturing the ineffable. Solid craftsmanship in both his songwriting and musicianship. His arrangements have an appealing calm and grace. Rich in texture and emotion."-TAXI "A dark cinematic feel, punctuated with tasty guitar. A nice mixture of 'ethereal Americana' and humor. A highly recommended local artist." -Victory Review "An outstanding debut (...as simple as that) filled with compelling songs about the dark side of life." -Platter Chatter

Additional Info Check out woodyrussell.com for more details, photos, music, etc.

Location Austin, TX - USA

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