BILL DEASY: Chasing Down a Spark

Bill Deasy

Chasing Down a Spark

© 2005 Bound To Be Records (733792600720)

CD IN STOCK. ORDER NOW. Will ship immediately.

"Well-crafted songs,giant choruses, rock guitars, and a whole ton of talent. What more can you ask for?" -Mike Sauter, Music Director, WYEP 91.3 FM

notes

CHASING DOWN A SPARK: The new release from the former Gathering Field frontman. "Chasing Down a Spark" was produced by Kevin Salem (Emmylou Harris, Freedy Johnston, Rachael Yamagata) and mixed by the legendary Joe Blaney (The Clash, Blues Traveler, The Raveonettes). The new CD features guest appearances by Maia Sharp, Rachael Yamagata, Donnie Iris and The Clarks' Rob James and Scott Blasey.

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"CHASING DOWN A SPARK" Review - WYEP 91.3 FM

Pittsburgh's own Bill Deasy, frontman for '90s band The Gathering Field, has been releasing his own solo albums in recent years. The follow-up to 2003's well-received Good Day, No Rain is another collection of terrific choruses and uplifting lyrics.

The new CD is produced by Kevin Salem, a singer/songwriter who emerged out of Boston to become recently an in-demand producer and session player for many indie-minded artists. Over the years, Salem has worked with indie rock bands Dumptruck and Madder Rose, as well as singer/songwriters Freedy Johnston, Matt Keating, and (more recently) Rachael Yamagata.

The album's lead-off tune is "Until I Get It Right," a hopeful song about perseverance in the face of troubles. "Down this road might find anything, rocks or gold," sings Deasy, over a backing track that falls somewhere between alt-country and jangle-pop. The song, with its gently soaring chorus and diamond-in-the-rough lyrics, sets the tone for the rest of the album.

The song "Levi" is an almost film-noir-ish pastiche set in New York City, featuring lines like, "She greeted me sadly then asked me my game/A five-dollar whore with a ten-dollar name." Both "Fireflies" and "Now That I Know What It Means" are engaging songs about trying to make a go at love, and "Pale" is about after a relationship heads south.

The CD features a number of familiar names. The Clarks' Rob James is one of the band members throughout the album. Scott Blasey and Donnie Iris also pop in to contribute backing vocals on one song each. Non-Burgh friends on the disc include Maia Sharp, who adds some harmonies on four songs, and Chicago singer/songwriter Rachael Yamagata does so on two tracks.

Chasing Down a Spark is a dozen rootsy songs which continues the evolution of a fine Pittsburgh songwriter. Well-crafted songs, giant choruses, rock guitars, and whole ton of talent. What more can you ask for?

- Mike Sauter, WYEP Music Director

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"He calls to mind Paul Westerberg and many of the finest rock songwriters who mix poetry and drunken bluster, yet somehow sound macho and sensitive at the same time"

- Performing Songwriter Magazine

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ABOUT THE ARTIST:

"It hit me over the head when I was six years old," says Deasy. "Elvis Presley. Truly hit me over the head. I don't even know exactly how I became aware of him. On my sixth birthday I got a record called 'Legendary Performer, Volume 1,' a collection of his very first hits. From that day on I would run up to my room when I got home from grade school, put on whatever Elvis record I was listening to at the time and bounce on the edge of my bed and just sing Elvis. It got to where every single corner of my bed had an indentation just from rocking and I had to keep flipping my mattress."

While his early fixation with Elvis Presley in his Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania bedroom may have set him on his career path, his inspiration to become an artist was further fueled by the discovery of such notable craftsmen as Jackson Browne, Bruce Springsteen and Van Morrison, who he refers to as his "holy trinity of songwriters." Deasy says, "There are many artists that have kind of shaped me but Jackson Browne and Bruce Springsteen really affected my writing." As for Morrison, Deasy adds, "I don't think I write so much like Van Morrison but he really inspires me. There's a mystical element to his writing that's so cool."

Like the songwriters cited above, Deasy has that rare ability to really touch people through his songwriting and perhaps this is the thread that ties the myriad of early influences together with his own work. "When I write songs," says Deasy, "I try to take my life experience and put it out there in a way that people can relate to. I feel like I've done my job if a song resonates with other people; if it connects with them in some way." More than anything, this is probably the reason that his music has attracted fans of all different ages in every state and overseas in places like the UK, Germany, the Netherlands and Japan.

The new CD, "Chasing Down a Spark," was produced by Kevin Salem (Freedy Johnston, Emmylou Harris, Rachael Yamagata) and mixed by the legendary Joe Blaney (The Clash, Blues Traveler, The Raveonettes.) The majority of the new CD was recorded in Woodstock and New York City and features stellar guitar work from the Clarks' Rob James and producer Kevin Salem. Two members of Deasy's Pittsburgh based band, Scott Tamulinas and Dave Throckmorton provide bass and drums, respectively. Rounding out the equation is a host of all-star NYC session players like Rob Arthur on keyboards, Oli Kraus on cello and David Mansfield on pedal steel and violin. The CD also features guest appearances by such Pittsburgh notables as Donnie Iris and the Clarks' Scott Blasey as well as recording artists Rachael Yamagata and Maia Sharp.

Starting with the hopeful and anthemic "Until I Get it Right" the songs on "Chasing Down a Spark" take us on a musical and lyrical journey looking at relationships and life from many different angles and perspectives. Deasy describes this batch of songs as being about people at a crossroads and an almost accidentally "well-matched group of seekers and strugglers."

"Levi" is signature Deasy; an adventure told through the voice of a character adeptly created for the occasion. The hero stumbles through a surreal New York City odyssey only to find his soul unexpectedly stirring by the black Hudson River. The gritty yet majestic "Wishing Well" is another song where Deasy shines through as a storyteller and the brutal honesty of songs like "Naked" and "Now That I Know What it Means" provide a balance to the light-hearted "Fireflies." Deasy gives voice to different ways relationships can go south in "Sweet Forgiveness" and "Something So Hard," which depict the challenge to let go and move on. In "Pale," the character confronts their dishonest partner with irony: "Your story's flimsy, like a cardboard box on a rainy sidewalk." "Pass Me On" speaks to the human spirit and embodies all the reasons that Deasy's appeal transcends so many boundaries. The haunting and ethereal "And I Wait" is a great lead-in to the muddy delta feel of "Turn Your Light On," the album's final track.

Deasy's first glimpse of national attention came as lead singer/songwriter of his former band, the Gathering Field, when the title track from their independently released album "Lost in America" became a bona-fide regional hit and brought them to the attention of several major labels. A bidding war ensued and the band ultimately signed to Atlantic Records who re-released the album. Almost immediately the label underwent re-structuring and the band struggled for several years to be released from their contract. Soon afterwards, the Gathering Field put out "Reliance," followed by "So Close To Home", an album of songs they'd played live for several years but had never recorded. During that time Bill also released a semi-acoustic solo album, "Spring Lies Waiting," which he has referred to as an "intentionally low-key affair." He explains, "I had written all these songs that didn't quite fit with the Gathering Field and I felt a need to get them out there." After 6 years devoted to the band, it was an opportunity to return to his roots as both a singer and songwriter and be able to express a vision all his own. During that time Deasy secured a new publishing deal and started making trips to Nashville to collaborate. The Gathering Field eventually disbanded and Deasy stepped out on his own.

In 2003 he released "Good Day No Rain," on which four songs were produced by Gregg Wattenberg (Five for Fighting, Pat McGee Band, Dishwalla) and the balance co-produced by Deasy and Dave McNair. The album brought rave reviews and several songs received airplay both across the country and overseas with a few winding up on the playlist of some significant radio stations.

Deasy is an avid reader and his literary leanings have probably influenced his songwriting as much as his musical heroes. As one fan declared, "He's the only person who can use the word 'circumnavigated' in a song and make it work!" His songs are not only emotional; they're intelligent - and yet completely accessible. In August of 2006 Bill Deasy added "published author" to his list of accomplishments with the release of his first novel, "Ransom Seaborn", which went on to win the 2006 Needle Award.

Besides Deasy's ability to turn a phrase, his distinctive voice is yet another appealing factor. Several fans have remarked that he could "sing the phonebook and make it sound good!" Certainly, it was that amazing voice that brought literally thousands of people to his website upon hearing him sing "Good Things Are Happening" in a commercial for ABC's Good Morning America and got him the surprising gig in the first place. The campaign was intended to last only 10 weeks but it became so successful that it remained on the air for 3 ½ years.

Deasy continues to show his diversity as both a songwriter and performer. His songs have been recorded by a wide array of artists including Kim Richey, Martina McBride, the Clarks, British pop star Howard Jones, Billy Ray Cyrus, Bijou Phillips and Michael Stanley. He has shared the stage with an equally diverse group, opening for the likes of Bob Dylan, Norah Jones, Patty Griffin, John Mellencamp and Bruce Springsteen.

Bill Deasy has a unique style all his own and perhaps this is the reason his fans have a difficult time comparing him to other artists.

But that's a good thing.

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Please visit Bill's website at www.billdeasy.com for up to date news, complete tour date listings, press, video and more audio clips!
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Visit Bill on myspace at www.myspace.com/billdeasy

reviews

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  • The Bill Deasy CD's are so good, that I have shared the experience with friends.
    author: Irene Eve Chudzik

    The Bill Deasy CD's are so good, that I have shared the experience with friends. I bought a best friend the Chasing Down a Spark CD and he loves as much as I do. After hearing it, I went back to CD Baby and ordered his others (Good Day No Rain and Spring Lies Waiting) and I aslo went to BillDeasy.com and ordered the Drain Tapes. I am also planning a road trip to Pittsburgh to see him play live. His music touches my life experiences so closely, that it's like he's lived life beside me. Now I will buy Ransom Seaborn and read his first literary endeavor. Bill Deasy is multi-talented, and he has earned a life-long fan. Thank you Michael Stanley for introducing me to this young and up and coming songwriter. I would love to host him in Cleveland for a house party, but don't think my home would be big enough. It would have to be a neighborhood block party.

  • a great cd - as expected!
    author: amber from boston

    this cd keeps growing on me with every play. i just got it in the mail and already love it. not much "warming up" to do with this one! my favorite song by far - something so hard!

  • Wonderful, enchanting musician!
    author: Joann from "The Burgh"

    Absolutely, awesome music. Probably my favorite so far, even tho they are all terrific. Thanks Bill!

  • LOVE it!!
    author: Margie from the UK

    A great follow up to Good Day No Rain which I also love! It seems I find something to love in everything Bill Deasy puts out. He's great -- full stop! If you don't like great melodies, great lyrics and great voices take a pass on this CD. But if you DO like great melodies, great lyrics and great voices do not delay! Put this CD in your shopping cart right now!

  • author: M.A.

    i am really enjoying the CD... of course i bought it for wishing well but now i like all the songs. thank you

  • Highly Recommended!
    author: Terry

    Anyone who lives for great songwriting owes it to themself to discover Bill Deasy. A friend of mine who lives in Boston turned me on to Spring Lies Waiting and his last one, Good Day No Rain and I was amazed at the depth of his songwriting. The cool thing is that you hear him evolving as an artist with each release and Chasing Down a Spark is no exception. Whether it's the rocking Wishing Well, poppy Fireflies, power ballad Something So Hard or midtempo rocker Until I Get it Right, his great voice acts as a perfect instrument to bring each song to life. I love the way his voice meshes with Rachael Yamagata on Sweet Forgiveness and I hope they do more together in the future. I could say something about every single song on this CD because each one holds something different in store for the listener but instead, I’ll just recommend that you DO listen. You just might discover your own story.

  • Deasy Amazes
    author: Annie

    I've followed Bill Deasy's career from a distance since discovering "Spring Lies Waiting" in the car stereo of an old college roommate a few years back. With each CD since then ("Good Day No Rain" and now "Chasing Down a Spark") I'm more amazed by his ability to paint pictures with words while also conveying a world of emotion with his voice. From the catchy, uplifting "Until I Get it Right" to the transcendant and spiritual "Pass Me On" and the hypnotic poetry of "And I Wait," "Chasing Down a Spark" never falters. It is a true masterpiece and belongs in the collection of all self-respecting music lovers!!!

  • Needs more songs with good hooks
    author: Pam

    Although I had heard of Bill Deasy, I have never seen him in concert (yet). I bought this CD because I love the song Wishing Well, and I read Bill's journal about making the CD and was intrigued. I can't say I love the whole CD, but there are definitely 4 or 5 songs that stick in my head. I would like to hear more of them on one CD. Otherwise, I still look forward to my first live show...

  • Great Performer!
    author: Shawn

    Love, love, LOVE this CD! Bill Deasy is a not only a great songwriter with an amazing voice but also a great performer! Saw him in Cleveland last night and he was amazing. I highly recommend this CD and if he's playing in your area, go check him out! You won't be sorry and will probably walk out loving his music even more. If you're in Cleveland, hope to see you at the Grog Shop in May!

  • Singer and Songwriter Extraordinaire
    author: Chris in MD

    Bill Deasy is a GENIUS when it comes to words and music. If he's performing in your area make sure to catch him play! He's amazing on CD and even MORE amazing live. Can't wait until the Iota!!!

  • Fantastic!
    author: Mary L. Weaver

    Awesome CD! Bill Deasy's sexy voice is pure ear candy! My favorites on this CD are Levi, Sweet Forgiveness, Fireflies and Wishing Well. This CD is pure and done with so much heart. I can never tire listening to it over and over.

  • Brilliant
    author: Paul Bass

    Being Bill's 3rd album i think he gets better each time, until i get it right and something so hard are superb tracks that deserve to give him more exposure. the quality of the album and the service form cdbaby made the expereince all the more enjoyable.

  • And we wait...for the world to discover this man's genius!
    author: Maree Gallagher

    Bill Deasy has once again come up with a collection of memorable, hook-filled songs that are profound yet accessible. This CD presents a hotter, more worldly Deasy -from the soulful, rocking Wishing Well, to the restrained and plaintive And I Wait...the husky timbre of his voice draws the listener in and doesn't let go. The collaborative aspect of this CD, recorded and written with a host of esteemed music icons, makes for an even richer experience. A must have for anyone who loves literate roots rock.

  • A great follow-up album
    author: Kate Yablonsky

    I think Bill took it in a bit of a different direction with this CD, and I like it. The female back-up vocalist adds a cool, soothing, and kinda spooky element to a few songs. Bill is a brilliant and captivating storyteller, as usual. Favorites: Sweet Forgiveness & Pass Me On.

  • Something for Everyone!
    author: Melanie T.

    I just love listening to Bill Deasy's voice. Whether it's the rockin' tracks or the more laid back stuff, he always sounds so great. The songs on this CD are terrific from the catchy "Until I Get It Right" to the rocking "Wishing Well" to the beautiful and moving "Pass Me On"...and MORE! There's definitely something for everyone on ALL of Bill's records and Chasing Down A Spark is no exception.

  • A tad to mellow...
    author: Jones Fowler

    Yep, I'm a big TGF fan-have been for years. But I like to rock and like more their faster stuff. I prefered good day, no rain more. HOWEVER, if you like TGF's slower stuff this should be right your alley. THOUGH, slow or fast Bill's voice is a treat for any ear.

  • Excellent CD!
    author: Smokey

    I don't know that I can add much more to what the other reviewers have written. I agree with everything. I love Bill's other CDs, but this one gets an A+ rating for everything from the lyrics and music to the production. Buy it!

  • He just keeps getting better!
    author: Cathy Sterling

    Bill Deasy's songwriting is up there with Bob Dylan's. From his catchy "Until I Get it Right" to his soulful "Sweet Forgiveness", you'll catch yourself singing these tunes. He just keeps getting better!

  • Once again, an awesome musical release!
    author: TR

    We waited and waited for this release, and here it is. It was well worth the wait! Bill has the unmatched ability to write wonderful poetry set to wonderful music. Thanks again for more awesome music to enjoy for years to come. :^)

  • I like the new songs.
    author: Barbara Renn

    Better than the earlier CD's. I didn't think that would be possible. I like the duet he does with the femal artist.

  • It just gets better . . .
    author: Kris Brey

    We have been watching Bill's career for a long time from the West Coast, much due to an introduction to it from his Aunt Fran. We loved "Good Day No Rain," but "Chasing . . . " is even better. We were also very impressed with "Learning to Fall," his song released by Martina McBride. We've been somewhat disappointed that it has not been released as a video--because it's the perfect for it. We look forward to what we will hearing from Bill next . . . and wish him the greatest success!

  • Break through
    author: Big guy

    This CD is tremendous, start to finish. Having listened to this CD for two weeks now, I can honestly list at least 6 of the songs to be my favorite at some point. The Spark has been seized - spread the word.

  • Outstanding MUSIC
    author: Jeff - Cleveland, OH

    Bill Deasy doesn't need to Chase Down a Spark ... he creates one with Wishing Well! Can't get the song out of my mind. Every song flows smoothly and builds into a great listening experience.

  • And He Did IT Again!!!
    author: Thomas Braun

    Yes man, he did it again! Bill has written again a fantastic album, full of nice and well lyrics and of course full of absolut fantastic music. I hope he will come to play some concerts in germany, that would be great. Thanx for the music, Mr. Deasy and don't stop doing this again and again! Greetings from Germany Thomas

  • I love the new CD.
    author: Vicki W. from Washington, PA

    Bill's new CD is wonderful and I can't get enough of it. The words and music are pure Bill Deasy; it is a treat to listen to. Thank you for the perfect walking companion!

  • Excellent and alive
    author: Cindy Yates

    This CD is the newest from Bill Deasy and he nails it. An excellent live performer, this CD brings Bill's on-stage energy to the studio. Every song's thoughtful lyrics are brought to life by a well engineered blending with the band and solid performances on vocals. The Wishing Well shows that good rocking music is yet another place Bill can solidly go. Many songs will stay in your head long after the CD is finished playing, and that couldn't be more pleasant. I highly recommend this CD.

  • Wake Up, World!
    author: Lisa Mulligan-Holt

    It's hard to know where to begin. I guess that quote about Bill Deasy being the real deal and that in a perfect world you'd already know that sums it up -- but it's just proof that the world ISN'T perfect! More people SHOULD know about Bill Deasy. I was first turned on to Bill when The Mountain (Seattle station) played "Blue Sky Grey" from the Good Day No Rain CD. I took a shot and bought the CD and have since gotten Spring Lies Waiting, Drain Tapes and also the Gathering Field's Reliance. All of these purchases just hooked me even more and this new record doesn't disappoint. I'd list my favorites but there's no point because I'll probably have different favorites next week! Every song has something special and different to offer. I'll end this little review by just giving Chasing Down a Spark is a big thumbs up and 5 PLUS stars!

  • beautiful music, profound lyrics, great performer
    author: go to girl and her hubby

    bill has done it again. we're hooked on this record --every song is a treasure. this cd is a wonderful addition to bill's already awesome catalog. we recently had the pleasure of hearing some old and new songs performed live in nyc. bill and rob (and levi) were outstanding!

  • Another masterpiece!
    author: Kellie Mosher, Binghamton, NY

    Once again, Bill Deasy weaves pure poetry with perfect tempo and provides us with a tapestry of music just in time to give us shade this summer! The lyrics in Chasing Down a Spark are so well crafted that each song feels like an old friend from the very first listen. Never stop doing what you do, Bill!!

  • Worth the Wait!
    author: Jo

    I am honored to be the first reviewer for the new record! I was lucky enough to get a copy over the weekend in Cambridge where Bill and Rob put on a GREAT show and have been listening non-stop for the last 2 days. It seems like I've been waiting for the new CD forever but I can now say that it was DEFINITELY worth the wait! Five stars aren't even enough! Thank you so much for putting your heart and soul into everything you do!

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