It was 1967 when Dylan and The Band fused electric and acoustic instruments and invented a new genre. To this day, there are writers and performers that keep fanning the flame of folk rock. Almost Leather Band’s principal songwriter Chris Smith is one of these, using non-standard arrangements in the traditional song form. This style, solo and with his band The Piemyn, earned him a national word-of-mouth cult following and strong critical praise.

The Almost Leather Band has elements that add unique textures to a conventional sound. Jason Kodie’s (Hookahman, Fat Tuesday) squeezebox style is to get thick in the harmony and fatten the groove. This compliments Chris’ aggressive yet melodic acoustic guitar approach.

The rhythm section is solid and inventive with Paul ‘Duke’ Paetz (Jr. Gone Wild, Luann Kowalek) on drums and Thom Golub (My Cat Julius, Magilla Funk Conduit) on stand-up bass.

The three part harmonies from Chris, Jason and Duke add moments of Sunday gospel, perfect for lyrics dense with imagery, abstractions and feelings.

The music is a mix of roots: sharp-cornered rhythms that give a respectful nod to old time country, the simple immediacy of folk, energetic rock, and a couple of blues-hued riffs. Adventurous melodies and unguarded lyrics are supported by arrangements that contain only the essentials.

Probably the most important attribute to this Edmonton-based quartet is their ability to connect with audiences. On the strength of the song content, or just plain get up and dancitude.

Check out their newest recording, Another Picture, and see if you agree that this is one of the finest albums you’ve heard in a while.




Contact: aimee@almostleatherband.com
Ph 780 488 5891
Fax 780 482 7621
Oliver P.O. Box 35009
Edmonton, AB, Canada T5K 2R8
aaccess@telusplanet.net