JEFF MONK - Echoes (2023)

Jeff Monk is a Texas-based independent country/rock performer. He has been performing music for nearly 25 years, and his debut album "Echoes" was published on November 10, 2023. Jeff's writing style is straightforward. The lyrics are direct and to the point, while the strong arrangements set the tone for the songs' emotional meanings. Carry On, his debut single, is a strong and optimistic message for everyone who has been through suffering.  Matt Leigh (Willie Nelson, Kenny Chesney, Taylor Swift, Deep Purple...) produced the album, which was recorded in the famed Sound Emporium's Studio A (vocals were recorded at Starstruck Studios on Music Row in Nashville, TN). 

"Echoes" features some of Nashville's most elite Session Musicians, including guitarist Tim Galloway (known for his work with Baily Zimmerman, Gary Allan, Little Big Town, Keith Urban, and many more), pianist and keyboard player Mike Hicks (Rascal Flatts, Keb Mo, Casey J, Robben Ford...), guitarist Sam Hunter (George Strait, Jason Aldean, Ronnie Milsap, Willie Nelson...), guitarist Shaun Richardson ( Ricky Skaggs, Dailey & Vincent, Jesse James Decker, Sierra Hull...) and drummer Kyle May ( Billy Ray Cyrus, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Clay Walker...)

The first song is "Carousel", a very catchy pop-rock tune (great chorus!), where we immediately notice the quality of the production and the musician. A very energetic guitar riff, meaningful lyrics and great bass lines for the first single "Carry on", one of my favourite songs on the album and a perfect choice as a single. "Backroad Traffic" is a very enjoyable rock ballad reminding of the second half of the career of Bon Jovi. Similar mood and pace for the title track, track number 4, amazingly performed and arranged. 

Country rock vibes for "Tidal Wave", more upbeat, with tasty guitar refrains and with the usual catchy vocal lines. Quality arrangement for the verse of "Hourglass" with a delicate piano and acoustic guitar, for a very relaxing ballad with a spot on guitar solo. Acoustic 90s vibes for the closing track "Don't Follow", which starts slow and grows in speed and intensity. 

"Echoes" is a quality release from every point of view: songwriting, performance, production and arrangement. An entertaining and satisfying album, give it a go by clicking on the Spotify player below and remember to follow Jeff Monk on social media.

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php
https://youtu.be/QZUAKXxUfZo?si=wFm1kdgbTFRLRhvy