Ken Macy’s latest gift to the world of music ~ an album by the name of Goin’ California ~ is yet another wonderful display of Macy’s skill, passion and story-telling abilities. This multi-talented musician and songwriter is a four time Worcester Music Awards winner and on this album alone, he handles the vocals, the acoustic and electric guitar, the bass, harmonica, some percussion and the tambourine. (He DOES let incredibly rhythmic Kevin Haverty handle the drums, however.) 

Country and folk are alive and well on Goin’ California, with Macy giving us the twang when necessary and the thumping back beat when we need it. Each of his songs is like a short story; he steps in as the charming narrator and tells us of a young girl who finds quick success and ultimate failure in the bright lights, of a simple guy reaching out to friends and family for connection during the holidays, of a couple whose passion consumes them as soon as they return to each other’s arms after a day apart. Macy’s lyrics are appealing because he keeps it simple. The emotions and language are honest and straightforward with never a superfluous word or thought snuck into the fray, keeping the imagery fresh and rich.

The album has unique moments that add zest to an already solid collection of songs. The vocal effects in “Country Cow Blues” give Macy’s singing that “old tyme” feel and you wonder if he’s traveled back to the 1920s to record the ditty into an old tin can. In “Seasonal Girl,” a peppy song about a guy in love with a girl he only sees during the warmer months of spring break, there are fun traces of the Beach Boys that make one smile and remember summer lovin’.

Goin’ California is a great representation of Macy’s range as an artist.Too bad we can’t keep this homegrown boy all to ourselves, but he is destined for great things that are bound to steal him away….
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Ken Macy is no stranger to the recording studio. With 3 previously released albums, Ken brings his experience to this latest release called "Goin` California". Ken Macy is one of those astounding musicians who cannot be boxed into one genre. He is generous to his listeners hitting on a song for everyone. Ken shows his expertise at adapting to any style and succeeding gloriously. Ken's instrumentation is top notch on "Goin California". Ken Macy plays Guitar, Bass, Percussion and Harmonica on this album and is kicking some major butt. This man writes a new page in talent. His vocals are brilliant. He can slide from soft melodies, to rock and back to blues as easily as taking a breath. It all flows beautifully. With outstanding help from Kevin Haverty on drums, Ken has yet another Exceptional Album for his loyal fans and new listeners.

Well thought out lyrics and production make Ken Macy's "Goin` California" a huge success. This is the kind of album you won't have to skip ahead when your listening to it. Each track bringing you another piece of Ken's songwriting and story telling abilities. You are going to love this album.

1) Quiet Storm - What a delight and a surprize. Ken Macy sings this sensual song with such style. Production, instrumentation and lyrics are absolutely wonderful. You will become a part of it when you hear it. Turn off everything except this song. Beautiful lyrics and a slow easy sexy vocal. Ken has nailed it on this one!

2) Goin` California - This is the title track on Kens album. I can't say enough about Kens songwriting on this track. It has a popish feel about it bordering on rock. Once again Ken's songwriting skills shine through this track. He has spared no expense at production anyone can see. Ken has done a fantastic job once again. His vocals are exceptional and one of a kind.

3) Country Cow Blues - WOW! This track is down and dirty blues! Ken Macy hits it with his guitar work. Exceptional production and instrumentation. And I have to say.. the lyrics are fabulous!! Ken Macy knows how to capture and hold you hostage baby! This track is going to make you growl, lower your head, squint your eye and bob along with it. This is quality blues! Well done Ken!!

Every track will hold something for everyone. From hard hitting Bluesy Rock like "Too Much Changing" to the sensual "Quiet Storm", I would lay money that this album is the winner of the year!! Grab a copy for yourself. Everyone needs Goin` California in their music library this year. It is simply outstanding.

And Thats just how I see it

Shashona McCall
Indie Showcase
www.indieshowcase.net
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You never know what you're going to get from singer-songwriter-guitarist Ken Macy but one thing's for sure: It's going to be good...Real good. After listening to the first cut from his latest album "Goin California", you would say Macy is going through an Eagles songwriting phase that features well constructed pop numbers filled with snarling guitars and great vocals. That's not to say Macy is copying one of America's greatest rock bands, on the contrary, he's employed those influences into a well penned song (Goin' California) that bares his signature vocals and inventive guitar work. But if you listen very carefully (and you should) you can also hear influences as varied as Chris Isaak (Quiet Storm), The Byrds (Seasonal Girl), Howlin Wolf (Country Cow Blues) and Led Zeppelin (Sly) along with some highly original offerings like "Stay in Tune" and the funky grind of "Too Much Changing". With four albums under his belt, it's clear that Ken Macy is a force to be reckoned with on the New England Music Scene. Good Stuff!!

-D.S. Metronome Magazine
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With a lovely acoustic sound and a knack for lyrical narrative, Ken Macy is a classic sort of American troubadour, coaxing emotion from blues guitar lines and his own clear, dextrous voice. Songs such as “Seasonal Girl” and the title track to his new CD, “Goin’ California,” manage to steer clear of cliché and instead paint engaging, wistful portraits of love lost to the road. 

-Worcester Telegram & Gazette
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