Artist description 25 yr old singer-songwriter from N.Y.

Music Style Acoustic,funk,folk-rock

Musical Influences Ben Harper, Karl Denson, Al Di'Meola,Jerry Garcia

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Artist History Leif James …A unique performer… When asked to name his main musical influences, Leif James will talk of his love for; the sublime styling and passion of Ben Harper, the unconventional and compelling compositions of Tom Waits, the improvisational breakthroughs of Jerry Garcia, the surreal and impeccable timing of David Gray, the insatiable grooves of Karl Denson and the word-smithing of Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan and Tom Petty. But what he hears most when listening to his favorite artists is, “Play from the heart!” He has certainly heeded this advice, quickly learning to compose original songs at the age of 16. James soon realized that he was a born songwriter, often playing gigs featuring only his own compositions. The sounds of his early musical upbringing in his rural New England home had a chance to percolate with other influences when he traveled the United States for 7 years with his guitar. He cut his teeth playing the streets to survive, and then quickly progressed to paying gigs. He made his way through an assortment of bands, none of which could fulfill the need in his soul to create original music that actually sounded original, and not like some other artists recycled material. After a few frustrating years playing guitar and singing in bands, James has opted to devote himself to performing as a solo artist, with occasional accompaniment. Not wanting to put out poppy numbers, which could easily boost him to financial success, he opts to sing and play from the heart, as he feels, “There is nothing more enlightening or satisfying than sharing your soul with an audience.” James’ need for creative _expression has led him on a path through the musical world on which he has become an extraordinarily original songwriter, and he has developed a truly unique voice, the combination of which is enough to make the listeners skin tingle. And his melange of bluegrass, funk, rock, and jazz roots combine to make even the most passive audience want to get up and dance.

Group Members Leif James-Guitar,vocals Jenn Collins-backing vocals and special guests on ocassion

Instruments ES295 hollow body, oscar schmidt acoustic, and an assortment of percussive instruments

Albums Live from Twisted Groove Fest(1999)Nowhere Town(2003)

Press Reviews go to my website

Location Hamilton, N.Y. - USA

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