DJ
author: Pete Smith
When one refers to a veteran performer one expects strong stories of life surrounded by equally strong country sounds. Ervin Allen is a veteran and you get what you would expect in spades! Raised in Madison, Wisconsin, Ervin was initially influenced by Elvis and his flamboyant performing style and the Beatles for their harmonies and the lyrical quality of their songs. Later his influences would include Johnny Cash, Roger Miller and Hank Snow, then Gordon Lightfoot, John Prine and Bob Dylan. The fact that Ervin has learned much from these legendary singer/writers is evident on his current album, the entirely original, Alaska (Land of Midnight Sun), and its program of ten strong story songs. The album is long on home, a longing for and an appreciation of, with songs like I’m Homeward Bound, Basswood, Green, Green Valley and Alaska (a world-wide radio hit single). Home has always been a popular country theme almost as popular as love and Ervin explores this territory effectively with You’re In My Memory, She Didn’t Love Me and Let’s Make A Memory Tonight. Produced by Andrew LaValley in Madison, Wisconsin, the album features a bunch of unknown (to me) but extremely talented musicians. I do recommend you check out Ervin Allen at www.myspace.com/ervinallen
-DJ Pete Smith, FAB-AM, UK-
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