News


In this column I'll include any breaking news on Rufus Brown, including potential upcoming concerts,  CD sales figures, and so on.

Here's an example of an article he had given me to include in a press kit:


Review of 's "Through the Colors of Time" 2003 CD from the Kishwaukee College Paper, The Kaleidoscope; November 20th 2003, written by Eric Rood:


"When music instructor Rufus Brown handed me a copy of his latest project, Mertyl, I must admit I was a bit nervous, expecting to hear the odd, quirky sounds that were characteristic of anything else of his that I had heard. However, upon listening to the album, called "Through the Colors of Time" I was pleasantly surprised to discover that it was essentially a singer / songwriter kind of album, not at all unlike Beck's last effort "Sea Change."

Of course, it's a bit more sparse than anything done by Beck, as Brown recorded all tracks himself at [L'studio Mother Cracker]. The album is centered around Brown's vocals and his acoustic guitar track, but there are several tracks where a programmed synthesizer adds some amazing textures to the song.
Some highlights of the nine song LP include "Lost to the World," [track 5] which features some interesting percussion and a very Eastern kind of feel to the music, and "Naked Sun," a sparse arrangement of open chords on an acoustic guitar with some great vocals and harmonies (not to mention some very ambient keyboard parts).
Brown, however, does include a couple of tracks that are reminiscent of his stranger stuff, like the final track, "She is Free [sic]." Featuring a haunting, whispering vocal track behind the main vocal melody, "She is Free" also features some odd chord progressions over a simple drum track, creating a very awkward and unique feel to the music.
My favorite track was "The Colors of Time," which, again, is a very simple recording, featuring an acoustic guitar, a synth and vocals. Very reminiscent of early Beck, this song is just amazing for its ability to create interest despite its amazing simplicity.
"Through the Colors of Time" is quickly becoming one of my favorite albums to listen to. It comes with my highest recommendations particularly if you are a music fan...." (author: Eric Rood)


Contributed by Karlene


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Gossip


Here I'll include some of the juicier stuff I heard. No guarantee of the accuracy of what you read in this column!

 

From: "Mike Hagedorn" <>

This Friday, March 5, (2003?)
Healer w/ Mertyl
Heartland Cafe
7000 N. Glenwood
Come for dinner, stay for drinks

Healer is Ron (Typewash) Turman's project, which is quite a
departure from the bash and crash he's been known to exhibit.
Try filing this under "Balkan Honkey-Tonk". Sweet melodies,
churning rhythms and Ron's famous smokey vocals. Also on the
bill is Mertyl featuring Rufus Brown and Brett Vandonsel and their
patented blend of pop hooks and experimental weirdness.
WARNING: Watch out for birthday celebrators...

And then, if that didn't satisfy your crave, come to the Gallery
Cabaret on March 29 for more of these two exciting emerging
groups!