Album Notes

After recording two albums with some of his adopted hometown’s most renowned musicians, McGuire took the reins on his latest project, Dust and Tears, contributing vocals, guitars, bass and drums while also recording, engineering and mixing the project. His sole collaborator is Donnie La Marca, who contributes keyboards, piano, strings, Hammond B-3 organ and “other cool sounds”.

Released in October, Dust and Tears rose quickly like its predecessors on the CMJ college radio airplay chart. McGuire’s 2003 breakthrough release Screaming was produced by producer/engineer Tom Herbers (Low, Honey Dogs) and features Minneapolis session musicians Jim Anton (Jonny Lang) on bass, Noah Levy (Honey Dogs, Five For Fighting) on drums, in addition to La Marca. Driven by the popularity of the song “Falling Hard,” Screaming earned heavy spins on over 100 college stations and charted on the CMJ charts.

In 2004, the multi-talented singer teamed up with Third Ear and the same group of players and released the four song EP This Time. In addition to further college radio success, the single “Waiting For You” had Triple A airplay and was included on the Shut Eye Records compilation The United State of Americana that also included Rich Robinson (Black Crowes), Amy England and the Wyatts.

While continuing to build a strong local and regional following with performances at Twin Cities hotspots like The Fine Line (where he held both of his previous CD release parties), Harvey’s, Legends Café and Station 4, McGuire took his time working on Dust and Tears in his home studio. He was so insistent on making a great third album that at one point, when he was almost ready to release his project, he discarded all but four tracks and began writing new material. Keeping the cuts fresh and organic, most of the songs feature his original scratch vocal and first take guitar tracks.

Reviews:

"When an individual has the ability to hear exactly what sort of dense and detailed sound issues forth from their speakers during “Dust & Tears”, they will be amazed." - NeuFutur Magazine

Past Reviews:

"Rick McGuire with This Time EP - Only four tracks on this gem - but WOW worth the purchase.” - RADIOIO

"This Time - A stunning performance that boasts great talent and wonderful moods. More than just catchy hooks, he melds melody with style in a seamless fashion that leaves the listener in awe.” - Shut Eye Records

"Rick McGuire's debut CD 'Screaming' sneaks up on you the way the good one's do. He's a subtle storyteller with the same intriguing imperfections that make a painting great" - Static Magazine