Tied to the Stone (http://www.tiedtothestone.com) is far more versatile than most of the acts journeying into the territory of Americana and Adult Album Alternative. The California-based group never sounds the same from track to track, embellishing its mostly easy-listening arrangements with sprinkles of blues, folk, country, and jazz. This is a "musician's band," one that can wow songwriters and experienced players with this deft collection of inspired - and inspiring - storytelling and melodic craft. For those who miss AM radio and the golden nuggets which used to be played on there, Tied to the Stone will prove to be a sparkling discovery as well.
Vocalist Dan Worley has an emotionally fragile voice that haunts the ears like Neil Young. There is no escaping the Young comparison, especially on the bruised balladry of "Warm to the Touch" and "Colors of My World." On "Warm to the Touch," dreamy acoustic riffs provide a calming backdrop to the song's life-affirming mission. On "Colors of My World," slow, gorgeous piano paints an autumn atmosphere that pulls you in. The words can be quite romantic, as these lines from "Down the Road": "I can see the setting sun in your eyes."
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However, Tied to the Stone can groove convincingly, too. "Almost Thirty Years Now" opens up moody and melancholy before the electric guitars jump in and leave everyone in the dust. "She Prays for Me" is energized by a thick, pounding drum and a little bit of distortion. The faster-paced "Ready for Something" and "Don't You Ever Give Up" could provide competition against the Wallflowers' jamming roots rock.
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