antiMusic.com: Erik Viel - Off the Beaten Path Review

Erik Viel - Off the Beaten Path Review
by Gary Schwind

.
Erik Viel alternates between instrumentals and songs with vocals. In the first four songs, there are two of each. "Southern Highway" an upbeat song featuring keyboards similar to Bruce Hornsby. "Wandering Blues" definitely has a blues base, with keyboards reminiscent of Booker T and the MGs. The two instrumentals are vastly different: one is a waltz and the other ("Bard of Ontario") was inspired by listening to Gordon Lightfoot.

"I'll be Loving You" has a groove that would make any Deadhead dance. This album includes a great rendition of John Prine's "Please Don't Bury Me" that definitely got my toes tapping. Viel also covers "Multi-Colored Lady" and really captures the spirit of Gregg Allman.

Viel incorporates a lot of influences in these thirteen songs, from folk to blues and country. These songs are very rich and well-constructed. The vocals are never strained and the instrumentals are all very easy to listen to. This is a quality CD by a top-notch singer-songwriter. I expect a lot of good things from Erik Viel.

CD Info and Links

Erik Viel - Off the Beaten Path
Rating:

Preview and Purchase This CD Online

Visit the official homepage

More articles for this artist .

Day In Rock

Geddy Lee Reveals Regret About Rush's Final Tour- Alter-Bridge Share Big News On 21st Anniversary- Get 'Hooked' On Franz Ferdinand's New Single- more

Karyn Crisis Disabled And Disfigured After Being Medically Injured- Rush's Alex Lifeson and Geddy Lee Still Jam Once A Week- more

Day In Country

Tucker Wetmore Scores 1st No. 1 With 'Wind Up Missin' You'- Lee Brice Going Retro With New Single 'Cry'- Lee Greenwood Launching 2025 American Spirit Tour- more

Reviews

The Blues: Ollee Owens- Kenny 'Blues Boss' Wayne- more

Burton Cummings Releases New Album and Embarks on 60th Anniversary Hits Tour

Live: Dave Koz & Friends

Beatles Vinyl Box Set

MorleyView: Gino Vannelli