Todd Adelman is part of a growing movement against the overuse of technology in music. In fact, he’s embraced the traditional more than most.
By Graeme Smith
Adelman owns The Woods, a Woodstock, New York, USA-based analogue recording studio, and puts authenticity at the forefront of his sound. There’s an emphasis on vintage gear, traditional recording techniques, and a focus on musicianship.
It all presents itself in his new album Todd Adelman And The Woodsmen, a ten-track odyssey through the rock and country genres. Their type of country is a modern one, reminiscent of some of Conor Oberst’s later solo work as well as channelling more prominent cultural touchpoints like Springsteen and Dylan.
The album gets going in laidback and lonesome style with This Rounds On Me. Adelman delivers it with gruff and soulful vocals, getting quickly into a bar singalong chorus. Lyrically, it tackles the reality of human frailty, a theme that recurs throughout the album.
We get reflective folktales and quiet storytelling in tracks like Just How It Should Be and Ordinary People. The latter is contrasted nicely by the lively honky-tonk of Hot As The Hinges, a highlight. Hippie Bluegrass has its tongue firmly in its cheek while Mini-Bar Blues revels in everyday sin.
This album feels like a love letter to country itself, delighting in the tropes and standards, and you can hear how the authentic approach to the recording lends itself to the style and subject matter.
Adelman’s ‘Woodsmen’ features some industry veterans. He’s been part of bands in Colorado for two decades. Guitarist Danny Blume has toured with Kid Creole, and worked with Iggy Pop and Lisa Loeb. Bassist Jeff Hill has collaborated with Rufus Wainwright and Rosanne Cash, and was part of Steve Earle’s band, The Dukes. Drummer John Valesio has recorded with the B-52’s Kate Pierson, among others.
In an instant gratification world where everyone can create a song with a prompt, we need the kind of skilled musicianship and genuine songwriting that Todd Adelman and The Woodsmen have to offer. Their self-titled album is a must listen for anyone who loves modern country, but it also has a broader appeal for those wishing to experience something real.
If you want to keep up to date with what Todd Adelman is doing, you can by heading to his website, and by following him on Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram.
Todd Adelman And The Woodsmen is out now, and you can listen to it below.
Supported by Musosoup #SustainableCurator
