PAUL CURRERI: Songs for Devon Sproule

Paul Curreri

Songs for Devon Sproule

© 2003 Paul Curreri (783707696720)

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(5/03) Working real hard, this young Virginian and his shimmering guitar, to cancel everything that doesn't lend toward gut, Singing, sounds like a good day.

tracks

1 Greenville
2 Letting Us Be
3 Night Jet Trails
4 If Your Work Is Shouting
5 Tomorrow We'll Wake Again
6 Come Near to Me
7 The Last Year of the Red Breast
8 Louise
9 Fishbowl
10 It's a Little Room (And I Need a Little Room)
11 Beneath a Crozet Trestle Bridge
12 Long Gone Again
13 Tomorrow Night

notes

Produced and engineered by renowned singer/guitarist Kelly Joe Phelps and recorded in just two days, Songs For Devon Sproule captures the full spontaneity and power of Paul Curreri's incredible live performances. "I guess that's what happens when you record an entire album in four hours versus nine months," says Paul. The result is a freewheeling collection of stories, spirited wordplay and stunning finger-style guitar work.

A record in the old, true sense, Songs For Devon Sproule unfolds with each listen. From the lilting "Greenville," to the glimmering "Beneath A Crozet Trestle Bridge," which features Kelly Joe Phelps on slide guitar, to his covers of Fred McDowell's "Louise" and the Sam Coslow penned standard "Tomorrow Night," Songs for Devon Sproule moves along with a deceptively gentle energy, careening from breezy playfulness to sudden longing in a beat.

The first time I saw him play I was just blown away," says producer Kelly Joe Phelps. "Paul's songs were incredible, the guitar playing was amazing. It's just undeniable stuff." Phelps soon set to work booking Curreri to open as many of his shows as possible, even flying the singer across the country for gigs. "I'll do anything to expose him to people and people to him, because I think the music is just so good."

When the time came to record Songs For Devon Sproule, Phelps offered his home studio in Vancouver, WA, where he had recorded his own solo Rykodisc CDs Roll Away The Stone and Shine Eyed Mister Zen. "I was glad to hear that he wanted to record in the most straight forward way, just guitar and vocals. So often during recording other things tend to get in the way. We set things up with as little extraneous gear as possible and just went to it." Most songs required only one or two takes and the entire project was completed in one weekend.

Named for his companion and fellow artist Devon Sproule, the disc is at once Curreri's tribute to the woman he loves and the traveling musician life they share. "I have at times wanted to change the title or thought maybe I should," says Paul, laughing. "At one point I thought of calling it More Songs For Devon Sproule." Throughout, the record celebrates and explores the ways in which relationships transform and shape us and all we do. "Devon has had such an enormous influence on me," he says, "who I am as a person and the way I work." In "Night Jet Trails" Curreri sings of this connection, "If every axe handle broadcasts its designer/Then my prints are on yours, and yours are on mine./Keep swinging that work till your work shirt seams split/I'll bust out, fresh-hatcheted, and finish it."

Exciting and individual, Paul's work is nourished by, but not slavish to, the different traditions from which it rises. "When people started calling me a 'Country Blues' songwriter, that was the first genre that I actually didn't mind -- only because I really enjoy Country Blues and it has a far more specific connotation than, say, 'Folk.' Some of my favorite musicians, individual as they are, get classified as 'Country Blues' artists," he says, listing Dave Van Ronk, Mississippi John Hurt, Reverend Gary Davis, Skip James and Blind Willie McTell.

"In the end what unites them," he explains, "is that when they play, it seems a perfect, clear representation in sound of what they are feeling. They are smart enough to write well, ambitious enough to play well, and brave enough to be in tune with themselves. And really digging down, concentrating hard enough to access what they're feeling, they somehow bring it out via their mouths and hands."

This is precisely what comes across in Paul's own work on record and on stage. "Most of my songs have intros of a few bars or more before I start singing. So while those bars are rolling along, I do my damndest to scan my heart and brain, trying to hear and feel where this piece of music and these lyrics came from and, more importantly, see where I stand now, feel about it at this very moment. Then I can trust that it will be the most honest singing of it at that time." Curreri's expressive guitar playing draws from this same well and is showcased throughout and in particular on the disc's two (mostly) instrumental songs "Tomorrow We'll Wake Again" and "It's a Little Room (And I Need A Little Room)."

Raised in Richmond, Virginia, Paul now makes his home in Charlottesville. He grew up playing music but ended up enrolling at Rhode Island School of Design to pursue painting and film. While Curreri credits his experiences at art school with developing his ability to observe and record the visual world, soon his true passion began to rise to the surface. By the time Paul graduated from RISD, he'd composed over 200 songs on guitar and piano. Turning down an editing job at -- "ironically and hysterically" -- MTV, he set to work carving out a life as a musician. His acclaimed debut for City Salvage Records, From Long Gones To Hawkmoth, was released in May of 2002.

A triumphant follow-up, Songs For Devon Sproule is a driving record full of rainy day elegance and late night wit.

* * * * * * * * * *
Acoustic Guitar Magazine, October Issue:

"...Curreri eschews romantic cliches in his original imagery ("Ain't crossing nothing sweeter/ Than the 'keep out' of the theater/ Lift the velvet rope/ Now lift it for me") and belies the innocence of both his sentiments and his charming tenor voice with the bluesy bite of his dynamic fingerstyle guitar work." -- Dirk Richardson

* * * * * * * * * *
Relix Magazine, October Issue:

"There's an abundance of good singer/songwriters out there, but Paul Curreri is one that stands out from the crowd. Singer/guitarist Kelly Joe Phelps has not only used him as an opening act but produced Curreri's superb "Songs for Devon Sproule." Curreri melds elements of country blues picking with folk and eloquent contemporary lyrics and emerges with songs that are engaging and honest... sparkling originals such as the lilting "Greenville" and the almost spoken "Night Jet Trails." But the most pleasing aspect of the disc is Curreri's crisp and complex finger picking. Fans of Jorma Kaukonen are advised to give this guy a listen." -- Mick Skidmore

* * * * * * * * * * *
Blues Revue Magazine, Issue #85:

"Country blues guitarist or folksinger? The answer doesn't matter much when the artist is Paul Curreri, whose gorgeous sophomore effort Songs For Devon Sproule is loaded with subtle genius in its delicate music and impressive words (they work as well on the page as in the songs). Not deep blues but very engaging, literate, and charming. Listen to "Night Jet Trails" and "Fishbowl" and be drawn in by the rest. Kelly Joe Phelps produced and lends his slide guitar to one track." -- Tom Hyslop

* * * * * * * * * * *
PureMusic.com Review, 2/2004

Wow! A hot, eccentric, eloquent modern country blues artist. Extremely likeable, and a good looking varmint to boot.

Paul and his very talented muse are from Charlottesville, VA, and I'm told they figure prominently in the acoustic scene around those parts. But anymore you may see the artist popping up anywhere opening up for his producer and champion, Kelly Joe Phelps. That's a hell of an endorsement for a fingerstyle guy.

The fellas knocked this out in KJP's home studio in Vancouver, WA, where the producer had cut his two solo discs before he took to fleshing out the jam. Curreri is such a fluent fingerpicker that he's free of all convention or blues device, grooving and improvising all over the place. There's just a boatload of spirit and old time verve on every tune. Kelly Joe also engineered (you gotta love that) and came out to play slide on one tune, "Beneath a Crozet Trestle Bridge." (Dig the major seven ending chord while the producer finished his blues lick, nice.)

And the lyrics, the cat is a beatnik blues poet, we kid you not. In fact, the only guy we know who plays this good and writes that good is the one who's producing. Truth be told, rolling through the lyrics there's hardly a stanza not worth quoting, so I'll just feed you the opener:

Oh, perhaps I might sleep,
but the screen door's a guilt bull
stuck plainly on sticking me through.
Had I the blood boiled,
or the fist like a marker,
I'd haul off, and dot his eye blue.
But that bull just wants a word,
the night just wants to barrel,
bet the sunrise'll want a piece of me too.
The back window creaks as I head over heels;
You say, "Greenville," so it's Greenville with you.

We'll be real surprised if his next disc is not on a national label, and shame on the passers. And by all means, also check out the previous album on Brooklyn's City Salvage records, called From Long Gones To Hawkmoth. (We just checked out some awesome clips on CDBaby, damn.)

We thank the gifted Laurie McClain for turning us on this badass poet picker -- and when we asked Kris Delmhorst (in our recent interview with her) what she has been listening to lately, Paul Curreri was at the top of her list. Book him, buy him, dig on him. -- Frank Goodman, Pres of Puremusic.com

reviews

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  • author: Rix

    I first saw Paul supporting the legendary but ageing Bert Jansch in London. Paul was full of so much energy it put Bert to shame..and this album is perhaps the equal of some of Bert's recordings too...Manages to capture a live feeling...plenty of emotion.. what more can i say...how many people who give this cd 5 stars can be wrong?

  • beautiful
    author: Anna

    Saw him for the first time with KJP at the Glee Club in Birmingham and then by himself at the same venue, with my boyfriend on our first date, which makes this album even more special :) its a spine tinglingly beautiful album, i love all the songs but my favourite has to be beneath a crozet trestle bridge. absolutely amazing guitar and a brilliant voice with superb lyrics and knowing that hes a really cool guy and excellent live performer just make this album one of my absolute favourites.

  • Beautiful!
    author: Roisin Muldoon

    This CD is absolutely beautiful - I bought it after seeing Paul play in the UK and buying Spirit of The Staircase, which is my most-played album...or at least, it was, until I got this one. I'm no guitarist so for me it's all about the voice, and I've never heard a voice like Paul's before. This CD is wonderful!

  • There is a humility about Pauls guitar playing
    author: jason

    I purchased Paul's CD's after seeing him play at the Jazz Cafe, London with KJP. I've just ssen him at an intimate gig in Brighton, UK. Simply put - Buy this man's music!! His guitar playing is breath taking! His songs are stories that will make you applaud and ponder what will come next! But more than that, there is a humility and humour to his playing - Buy this man's music. Thanks for taking time to chat and sign your new live album to my lady Wendy! I'll ceck out your Brother's music, Matt Curreri!!

  • Sublime blues and poetry
    author: Tom Jackson

    I came across Paul Curreri playing as support for Kelly Joe Phelps on a recent UK tour. Incredible to say, but I came away more impressed by Paul than with Mr Phelps himself! Paul Curreri has an effortless, sublime mastery of the guitar and the country blues heritage, which he seems to have claimed and morphed into a totally unique style of his own. I was mesmorised by his stage performance but had my reservations about how well it would come across on CD. Having finally managed to track down his CD's, via CDBaby (great service guys!), I was pleased to find my worries were in vain. His magical music and lyrical poetry come across with the same intensity and power as when performed live. He conjures up intricate stories from deep within his pysche and delivers them with his touch of guitar genius. Really wonderful, wonderful stuff. Paul, please come back to the UK soon!

  • We here in the midwest thank you, Paul!!!
    author: Samuel T.

    What an unbelievable record, this is! Mr. Paul recently visited us out here in Iowa, and my wife and I are absolutely going bonkers over the musicianship on this fine album. These days, it seems that folk music has been whittled to its dullest form possible. People seem to turn in songs that they learned to write out of some kind of How to Be A Folk Star book. Paul pushes the envelope to such a degree (see Greenville or Long Gone Again) that it's no surprise to me (although a shame) that his stuff isn't selling millions. He's just too brilliant and musical, too intellectual, and too deep to cut into mainstream radio. I tell you what though my friends, not to make unnecessary comparisons, but there are very few folk albums out there, from Gillian to John Martyn, that can hold a candle to Songs for Devon Sproule.

  • I just came back to buy christmas presents...
    author: Kristen

    Songs for Devon Spoule was borrowed from me so much that I just came back to CD Baby to buy it for christmas presents. I've loved this CD since the first time I heard it, so share the love, right?

  • Unbelievable!
    author: Tyson

    It's such a rare treat to fully HEAR someone playing their songs, much more when the songs are some of the best that have ever come out of my stereo. I bought this record after seeing Paul live in Paris, which really left me out of breath. Paul is so brilliant, and this record continues to fascinate my wife, our friends, and me. I'm at a loss for words. It makes me almost want to return to the US!!

  • best buy on the entire site
    author: adelbert vanneste-Belgium

    Guess I'm here to represent the old continent, and it must be said that this cd still sounds amazing when played at the other side of the Atlantic,even for those that don't grasp the lyrics.In my opinion the best buy on the entire site.Don't miss this one, you'll just end up hating yourself for it.

  • Full of Soul
    author: Jennifer

    I fell in love with Mr. C's vocal magic and finger-licking-guitar-pickin' when he opened for KJP at Freight and Salvage 4/05... I'm charmed and endeared... great album ... authentic, amusing and bursting with a raw talent like no other!

  • Class
    author: Jacob

    This man has character, touch, skill and heart. Wonderful album!

  • brilliant
    author: David

    Loved the cd, Paul's songwriting is so open and honest and accesible and his guitar playing is wonderful.

  • and the other kitty kat said..
    author: daniel

    fuc yeah!

  • Really rythmic, entertaining and live-feeling killer-music!
    author: Anna H

    This cd is the only one I have heard from Paul curreri. A friend told me it would be great, and boy it was! I LOVE his guitar-playing, i have never heard anything so rythmic, beautiful and melodic on guitar before. I adore it! Using only a guitar and his voice, Paul Curreri fills up the space of a full ensemble (not in decibel, but in feeling). Great dynamics, and great lyrics. In some way I feel he's is not deadly serious about his music, (I hate when artists think about themselves too seriously), but I can hear some kind of humour through his songs and I like that. The lyrics are exciting and it takes a while to get what he is saying. He sings very expressively and freely, and his voice follows the words, melody, rythm, guitar as well as the opposite. His music gets my brain thinking and my heart feeling, sometimes in a sad mood, and sometimes really happy. I like that he's not scared of anything while playing - he is just playing it the way he likes, with no thought of rules but often improvising. This is music you can listen to while relaxing, being heartbroken, being in-love, cleaning your entire house or when you need a creative kick. It's really good!

  • man, what a touch this kid has.
    author: adam ferguson

    no reason to go off, as it's all been said up above me, but man, this kid can play guitar and write nice, introspective, cleverly worded, thoughtful music. he's not an angst-ridden guy, just someone who's loved hard and likes to explore the feeling of it. good music to drive through nebraska with, in the middle of the night. or anywhere..

  • a desert island disk- I lost it once and never will go without again!
    author: Colleen R.

    Another insant favorite cd from Paul. His individual style and amazing talent on the guitar continues- with even more variety in tone than on his first disk. Don't pass it up.

  • Awesome
    author: Aaron

    This Cd Is Great. The tracks that are not on this site to sample are even better than the ones you can demo on the site. Plus CD Baby ships Cd verry quickly and keeps great communication with you the customer. Verry friendly. You always know whats going on with your cd and shipment. plus they chek to see if you got everything ok. AWESOME COMPANY AWESOME CD.

  • author: Scott A.

    Paul's playing is very elegant, and his writing style seems to match his singing style. They are both bold and self-aware (brave and honest) and it's almost like he's challenging himself to greater and greater depths. This record has played an enormous role in my life this year. It seems to be the soundtrack to everything in life that is beneath the surface and is beautiful. I can't say enough about it. He's fantastic and so is this record, and I can't wait to hear what's next, and I hope he returns to the west coast soon.

  • Outstanding album a pleasure to listen ...
    author: Steven Radford

    What a great album this is my first time listening to Paul Curreri and it will not be the last big thumbs up if you have not purchased this album yet what are you waiting for????

  • All the other records stop...out of respect for Curreri.
    author: Amanda

    I imagine that all other pickers have a dream of Curreri's fingers, because his art resonates to and through our deep places. I am completely taken by his music. His is of a caliber that's rarely seen.

  • A crowning achievement!
    author: Iris Haley

    Having played "Songs for Devon Spruole" three times in a row prior to writing this, I can only say that I am breathless. Paul Curreri is a timeless conglomeration of all that touches so poetic and deep, yet so human. I only hope he returns to England in the near future!!

  • Paul Curreri throttles onward
    author: Jack Drake

    Mr. Curreri just jammed his way through England and blew everyone's minds. I feel truly blessed to have caught his performance at the Borderline. This man plays with such an intensity and focus, it's almost difficult to take it all in on one listen. Thankfully he makes records, and what phenomenal records he does make. This, and his first too which I also purchased, are truly astounding pieces of work. The dedication to craft exhibited here is topped only by the inspiration he is so currently experiencing upon hitting the record button. I cannot wait for his return to the UK. Buy this record. It will do nothing less than blow your mind.

  • Essential guitar troubador listening... outstanding
    author: davemacguitar

    Sublime fingerstyle guitar with echos of Kelly Joe Phelps and Chris Smithers. Songs that twist your emotional logic and heart strings.. intelligent, poetic and enthused with youth while seasoned with experience. Essential listening for those tired of predictable singer/songwriters..hi rotation in my lounge

  • a true original guitar and lyrical voice
    author: Alan Westin

    This project is absolutely spell-binding. Mr. Curreri is touring the UK imminently, and I'll most certainly be in attendence. Word on the guitar geek web is that he's preparing to make a new record, which is very exciting. I hope to see some new material, but of course I also hope that he plays some of the astounding brilliant songs from this record. See you in the UK, Paul! Keep up the inspiration. And dammit, keep up the guitar stylings that make the rest of the world look like they've never had a single valid thought, you bastid!

  • So few compare
    author: Quinton E.

    This weekend I drove down from Pennsylvania to catch Paul in Williamsburg, Virginia. I'd owned his first record, Long Gones to Hawkmoth, and it's changed my life. So few people write so courageously. The performance was stellar as always. I bought "Songs for Devon Sproule" at this concert and I've since been knocked silly yet again. With just a guitar and vocal, Curreri accomplishes such an amazing amount, and seems so willing to put himself on the line. His music is nothing if not brave and soulful, and just listening to it invigorates me and makes me want to conquer everything I'm afraid of. If every musician hurt and loved like Mr. Curreri, no one would ever go to bed on time again.

  • Here is Love
    author: Caroline Westbrook

    I just caught Paul at a Boston concert, and I was just blown away. I don't play guitar, but his work moved me to a surprising extent. I'd never encountered someone who played with such a combination of deliberation and heart. I was on the edge of my seat because he was. He sang like it was his last concert. Naturally, I purchased his newest record that night, discovering later that it was produced by Kelly Joe Phelps. It shouldn't have been news to me. This record simply croons such poetic ambiance, much like my favorite KJP records. Paul Curreri is one of those musicians you daydream might be your best friend, because you're so confident their insight would lead you to better places. Buy this record and join up with the better places.

  • Soulful, poetic, and inspiring
    author: Will

    Mr. Curreri isn't necessarily a new caliber of artist. His work is however of a very elite group that one doesn't often run into. The songs and performances on Songs for devon Sproule really matter to me and matter to everyone who I run into who has heard them. Paul Curreri is really soulful. His guitar playing is truly poetic. It sort of dances around like a more avant-garde John Hurt. Kelly joe Phelps knew what he was doing when he invited this young guy into his studio.

  • great CD, but hes better live
    author: Tom Cadaret

    I saw paul play for the first time last night, and I was really amazed. His playing sounded so real as did his voice. One thing he has over other musicians in this style is his great songwriting ability. I hope he comes back to ohio!

  • Great effort but too subdued
    author: madlinse

    The more I listen to Songs for Devon Sproule, the more I take to it. Not that I had trouble in the first place. It was excllent, as I have come to expect from Paul Curreri. Yet, it seemed too polished, too mellow, and too tame. I have been fortunate to witness Paul's phenomenal progression as a musician over the past four years, but I miss the wild, erratic style that characterized his demo CD and From Long Gones to Hawkmoth. But, this is really just the equivalent of debating how many angels can fit on the head of a pin. Paul Curreri is brilliant and anything he produces is worth its weight in platinum.

  • Buy on sight.
    author: John Ryan

    Amazing voice. Guitar playing like I never heard. Rhythmical. Almost impossibly "twiddly"...it has to be seen to be believed, and I have seen. I listen to these songs and almost all of them make my wish-I-could-write-a-song-like-that list, especially "Letting Us Be"...a fantastic song that produces goosebumps. Be inspired. Put a smile on your face and forget all the bad stuff. Buy this album NOW!!

  • I can't believe how good this is
    author: Curtis

    I feel embarrassed that it's taken me this long to contribute my awe to this page. Songs for Devon Sproule is so masterful that I worried my words couldn't match the emotions listening to it draws!!! Curreri's guitar-playing is wilder and more jaw-dropping in concert than heard here (the guy is so efficient and purely emotive -- it's just mezmorizing), but the live radical is replaced herein by beautiful eloquence on his instrument.... precise, but still loose. Lyrically, there are few comparisons. I dare say that uttering "Dylan" may very well be short-cutting Curreri's elegance and vision. The gifted Kelly Joe Phelps has stumbled upon a young master, and as though he needed it, that's to Phelps's credit. Music this important doesn't happen very often.

  • There is a God
    author: Carlie L.

    Cursing the cover? Are you crazy? Paul's cover references an old Lemon Jeff cover (unless I'M crazy!), albeit rather subtle. It's beautiful and tasteful. This record is glorious. I'm listening to it right now for the umpteenth time in umpteenth days straight. I've been pleased to see Paul getting reviews in major places, but it's still not good enough. There is no current music publication that even deserves to write about a record this pure. It has as much to do with Van Gogh as it does Nabakov. Paul has true visions of beauty, and for some reason, feels prompted to relay them to us via his unparalled guitar, lyrics from the literate heart, and voice like one of us.

  • Excellent
    author: Scott Young

    Fantastic CD - excellent songwriting, guitar playing and singing - what more can you ask for (except for a better cover)?

  • Songs for Devon Sproule takes you places
    author: Xav Rodriguez

    When I listen to Paul Currerri's sophomore effort, I can't help but feel like I'm back in Puerto Rico. His record doesn't sound Puerto Rican. I just remember that period in my life so pleasantly. I remember feeling charged and awake and turned on. This record is stacked full of strong poetic imagery that effortlessly transports the listener to exciting, alive places. His guitar picking echoes these travels. When I first saw Paul live, I questioned what I was seeing. Could this young man really be moving me this much. I bought the record and realized yes.

  • author: Stephan

    You should leave 5 stars for absolute perfection, but this record is, in its genre, as close to perfection as it gets. Wonderful lyrics that would grace any poetry volume, intricate guitar playing, and an overall beautiful, albeit somewhat tentative mood (one star less for that - why so shy, man, with your skills and talent? Your work is shouting, I thought!). This record got me the moment I listened to the first excerpts, and it haunts me since. Devon Sproule (check out HER album) is lucky to have these songs dedicated to her.

  • Paul Curreri a real treat for progressive Catholics
    author: Ben's Aunt's Catholic Newsletter

    For progressive Catholics in search of a spirited folkie with serious chops, Paul Curreri's Songs for Devon Sproule is a diamond in the rough. I got the chance to see Paul in Chicago at Uncommon Ground with his muse Ms. Sproule, and both were revelations. Of course, Paul's and (Devon's)record isn't just for progressive Catholics, but the record seems to fit quite well with the movement of progressives. I was at a Howard Dean campaign meeting recently, played Paul's record, and got rave responses. A record for the soul. Thanks Paul.

  • A fantastic record
    author: Sidney

    I too just saw the young Mr. Curreri at the Birchmere in Northern Virginia. I was equally floored as another reviewer. This record expands his heavenly performance even more, which I really did not think was possible. You can hear him breathing (very sexy) while his guitar runs circles and the emotional spectrum. His lyrics sparkle and his voice has that indescribable quality that's so hard to pinpoint. It's not a timbre or a tricky quality that I'm talking about. It's that element of deepness and believability, and how I welcome him to speak for me and the way I feel. Paul Curreri is really a beautiful artist, and I wish him all the luck and rewards he deserves.

  • Paul Curreri pushes forward
    author: Will Braddock

    I saw Paul Curreri at the Birchmere this evening, where he note by note charmed the pants off of the entire audience, not to mention left them with gaping jaws. I waited in line for thirty minutes to have him sign my copy of this record. Thirty minutes of people who had for the most part never heard him before. (Paul had opened!) He's everything everyone who cares at all about acoustic music is looking for. He's brilliant and bright, and he plays and sings with intense, intense joy. This record and this young man are a breath of fresh air. Kelly Joe Phelps should be proud of his production effort. John Hartford (mentioned in one of Curreri's songs), John Fahey, Dave Van Ronk, and even Mississippi John Hurt must be sitting in the clouds nodding their heads. Curreri seems to dig in as much for them as us.

  • Right on, PAUL!!!!!
    author: Pete O.

    Perhaps Paul Curreri is the first person to wear a cowboy shirt in concert that I believe. He is a cowboy, through and through, riding along on one tricky, gorgeous bull of guitar. I attended a concert in Madison, Wisconsin recently, and purchased this record. Searching online for other reviews, I found this site. Right on, everyone! I agree! It IS a masterpiece! It IS phenomenal! This Paul Curreri fellah is nothing short of a genius, and when I listen to this record, I feel blessed to own it. The lyrics should be in print somewheres else besides his liner notes. His truly original (and masterful) guitar playing blows my mind. And as a fellow singer, I can't help but tip my hat. "Songs for Devon Sproule" is absolutely one of the greatest records in my entire collection. Buy.

  • A great journey
    author: Rick Klau

    I've only had this CD for five days, and already it's among my most listened to albums. You'll love his voice, marvel at his guitar work, and wonder at his depth. Buy it, listen to it, go see him play. You'll be glad you did.

  • One of the best I've ever heard
    author: Peter Nevins

    Call me crazy, but this one of the best records I've heard since I started buying records thirty years ago. Paul's guitar playing is spectacularly complex, but more importantly, it sounds simple and honest. It has something in common with John Fahey in that the errors thrive, even offer more life to the whole. That's just the guitar. The gorgeous and considerate lyrics on this record are sung with such passion and matter-of-factness, in a voice that is young, old, perceptive, and knowingly naive. Who is this cat? Good job, Paul! If you're ever in Belgium, I've got a pen for you to sign my cd with.

  • perfect
    author: Britt

    This is an exquiste and beautiful album. Such love and passion coming from such a young man is rarely seen. Curreri is fascinating. Listening to his purist guitar and spirited lyrics is almost terrifying in that I worry he'll not be able to keep up with his own brilliance. I'd pray for his inspiration's longevity, were it not already so clear that someone is looking after him. "Songs for Devon Sproule" is as great as they come.

  • Poetic Brilliance
    author: Myrtle Ruth

    Lovleliness put to music. It's that simple. Just listened to this CD on a plane flight from Atlanta to Fort Liquordale. Kept hitting the replay button on several songs: Letting Us Be; Greenville; Louise. You get the picture. His lyrics can stand on their own as poetry. Lucky for us we get his brilliant guitar playing and voice to add a whole new dimension. Townes Van Zandt used to say that a song had to work as a poem first before he would put it to music. I think he would concur that Curreri has succeeded with Songs for Devon Sproule.

  • Curreri should be President
    author: Sam Porteous

    There is no greater record than this. I can't stop listening to it. It's part Miles Davis and part Roscoe Holcomb. It's even part elder Baryshnikov, the way Paul dances across the guitar so efficiently. You can hear him making decisions at a spur of the moment pace. In "If Your Work Is Shouting," Paul writes: "Bid you more than holyworks / From standing by my side. / I bid you back what I have taken from you." I personally could never repay him for what this sparkling constitution of love and life has given me. My thanks go out to Mr. Kelly Joe Phelps for taking the time to recognize this holy, holy work.

  • Curreri and Phelps, genius flying around the room
    author: Kristopher G.

    There's a passion expressed here like Walt Whitman's earliest Leaves of Grass. I can't take full credit for the parallel. Curreri mentioned Whitman in passing over a beer following a Portland, OR concert. Being a poetry fan, I gave it some consideration, listening to "Songs For Devon Sproule," and I hear it. These songs are full of joy, Curreri's straining to reconcile with the fact that his body can touch these emotions, create these weaving lyrics and lyrical guitar pieces. Curreri strikes me as someone who works hard, who cares infinitely about his art, and who wants nothing more than to create something strong enough to allow him to converse with confidence after a show. He's done it here. I'd have paid untold amounts of money to have been witness to the recording process. Paul Curreri and Kelly Joe Phelps, in the same room, genius flying around the room and ice cubes clicking against the glass.

  • Now and forever a great record
    author: Chuck Freed

    Stupendous work. It's an absolutely depressing state of music when a record like "Songs for Devon Sproule" isn't heralded by critics from all walks. It represents everything that a record can be, how an artist can capture so much more than just his/her own experiences through sound and heartfelt belief in their work. Kelly Joe Phelps is masterful, proven year after year by his unwillingness to be satisfied or pigeon-holed. He is constantly growing as a songwriter, musician and artist. It comes as no surprise to me that he decided to produce Curreri. I imagine the two of them sitting opposite one another, laughing and encouraging each other to play the hell out've everything they do. Congratulations to them both for creating something mezmorizing and beautiful. It will stand the test of time!

  • Shattering
    author: Jackie Sharpe

    This damn record is so stunning it makes me whisper talking about it! It's like I don't want to let the secret out... the instinct to protect something so treasurable. But there's no use. Paul's belting: "If your work is shouting, deep-breasted, from sun-up to sundown, take care in time, a shouter you'll become." This artist certainly has Become. His work screams integrity and honesty and personality, and all with such a modest and positive attitude that it makes you want to kiss him. This beautiful and inspired guitar player (Holy CRAP can he play!) and singer (from a belt to a whisper in a heartbeat) is in love. You might not think that applied to you. The way he writes, you're wrong.

  • There is ONE bad thing about this album...
    author: Cindy Lee

    ..... its so good it ruins the rest of your CDs. seriously. I take it in the car, I take it inside, I take it in the car, I take it inside. I have listened to it non-stop since I got it and no one is complaining. It is the only CD that my dad and I agree have ever BOTH LIKED. Which is proof that ANYBODY would fall in love with this music. My boyfriend and I get in the car and don’t talk to each other because we want to listen.. (my favorite song is “letting it be” and his is “if your work is shouting”) Buy this album and love it forever. But it will eclipse the rest of your CDs.

  • a quiet monster from the soul of a true artist
    author: 9X Magazine

    There's a ton of talent running around in Charlottesville, Va., and this fine guitarist-songwriter proves the case in point. Gentle in thought, perceptive in lyric and melodic in finely tuned fretwork, Curreri captures rhyme and rhythm in a manner that's rooted in country blues but grows in unique and inspiring ways. Instrumentally, Curreri's drop tuning, finger-picking style is lilting and fluid and there's a languid tension throughout that's created by a strong and sure dynamic sense. The flicking and scampering of his fingers weave an aural magic that complements his elusive and playful vocal style perfectly. Lyrically, Curreri is full of taste and truth and throughout "Songs" he scatters little poetic jewels. Each listen reveals new reasons why this guy is the real deal. Lines such as "the summer air's thick as gossip" or "I'm trying to tell you sweetly/through you're stubborn winter will/to come near to me" are as beautiful as they are unusual in expression. Each of these 13 songs has something to say about the thrills and mysteries of new love and the songs are sung with a joyful and open heart. They slip and slide with a passion and humor that's both charming and brutally humane. Producer Kelly Joe Phelps thankfully captures the spare and celebrating mood without injecting unnecessary musical components to interfere with Curreri's quicksilver picking and moonstruck vocals. I ain't selecting no favorites from this set. From start to finish, the entire project is a quiet monster that comes from the soul of a true artist.

  • Plain and simple, this is a great album...
    author: Vintage Guitar Magazine

    ...And in this age of over-produced Top 40 records, it’s great to hear a guy sit down with his acoustic guitar and voice and make meaningful, soulful music. This is Curreri’s second album, and it’s produced by guitarist/singer Kelly Joe Phelps. Phelps produced this one and plays some slide on one cut— the only music not made by Curreri. Phelps, who’s music is always very smart, shows he’s just as smart as a producer. Basically, he records Curreri doing his thing. And that’s all that’s needed. Curreri’s base is country blues, but it goes much deeper. He’s a wonderful fingerstyle guitar player who’s at home playing traditionally, but also throws in his own quirks. On some songs, he uses chord progressions that would never have occurred to the men who helped form this music. Vocally, Curreri’s voice is expressive, and on some tunes, beautiful other-worldly. He goes from a “talking blues” feel to falsetto moan to growly blues voice, without batting an eyelash. His voice is truly an amazing instrument. It, as much as his guitar playing, helps set the tone. Most songs here are originals. His wordplay is wonderfully obscure. I confess, there are some songs I have no idea what he’s talking about. That doesn’t detract from how good the songs are. There are some songs that are obviously love songs, dedicated to the Devon Sproule mentioned in the album title. She’s his companion, and also an artist. Many songs let his affection for her shine through. This is really one of the very finest records I’ve heard in awhile. And, I don’t mean just in this genre. I mean, any genre. It’s a rare find to catch a young guy who can play this well, have his own voice as a singer, and write songs that are as interesting as anything out there. -- John Heidt

  • Thank you, Paul
    author: Rick Eckerson

    The term "bright light" is overused. Exactly how many candles does that denotate? Regardless, there is no brighter than this fellah. I've seen Sir Paul Curreri perform three times now, all down here in Oxford, Miss, and I've come to realize this man is human, despite his other-worldly performances. There really isn't any other way to describe Paul Curreri save "astounding." Original, yes, one of the greatest guitar players (and surely to become one of the most influential), yes, but so much more than that. He's human. His two records stank exclamation points all over the place of HUMAN. This new record, which I'm proud to own, and which I now know upon reading was recorded in but a few hours, brings tears to my eyes. I'm in love with my wife. But after listening to this record, I couldn't help but realize how many fascets to loving I'd missed. God bless this Devon Sproule. She inspired the Bible of Love, and one filled with real muscle at that.

  • Imaginative masterpiece, Inventive as can be
    author: Kevin T.

    Curreri continues to graduate from higher and higher schools of musicianship. I don't know who the hell is teaching the class, or where the hell they're teaching, but somebody's looking over this young man and really filling him with genuine cracker-jack beautiful energy. Songs for Devon Sproule is strikingly original. It really floors me. Paul's combination of unusual guitar melodix, roar-to-whisper singing style, and some of the finest and most imaginative lyrics I've had the priviledge of encountering make for nothing short of a masterpiece. If he quit now, I'd understand. This record offers up something entirely pure into the collective.

  • Paul shines...again.
    author: Shayna

    Never underestimate the power of acoustic guitar, voice, poetry, and passion: "Songs" is lush. Paul's hugely rich lyrics combine with unique melodies to form the kind of record akin to a place at the center of musical bliss. Thank you, Paul, for making the kind of record that resonates with individuality and beauty -- the kind of record that let me know you'd endure as a musical power both in your own right and dear to me when I first heard you play three years ago.

  • Currerri transcends.
    author: Jono roberts

    Where did this guy come from? Songs for Devon Sproule is the most perfect collection of acoustic guitar gems since Kelly Joe Phelps' Shine Eyed Mr Zen. His songs are so diverse and fluid, yet never aimless. The breadth of his musical vocabulary is amazing! Listening to this album is like driving across the continent.

  • Extending the performance
    author: Peter Bradley

    Equal parts joy poet, expressionist painter, and keen bluesman, "Songs for Devon Sproule" finds Curreri in perfect form. On a friend's suggestion, I just went and saw Paul play in Chicago. I purchased this record afterward. Putting it into the car cd-player on the way home, I honestly expected to find a tamed version of the extraordinary performance he'd given that evening. But no! I've since found the record to be an extension of that performance. "Songs for Devon Sproule" proves Curreri's at his best when he's shooting from the hip, when he's concentrating his growl and digging into his guitar so desparately. I can feel him feeling these works so much it hurts my heart. Come back to Chicago soon, Paul, and congratulations on a gorgeous record.

  • Another great CD Paul...
    author: Matt

    Songs for Devon Sproule is a worthy follow up to the first CD which I played over and over again - This disc will certainly remain in my CD player until the next one one from Paul... See you in the UK Paul when you make it over - come along with KJP in June!!

  • Go! Go! Go!
    author: Brian

    I've only owned this record for a couple of weeks, but I worry that the cd's edges will soon look as tattered as a pair of old jeans. I just can't stop listening to it! "Songs for Devon Sproule" is the sound of a young man bursting into the musical light and laughing the whole time. I picture him with his arms over his head like a roller coaster. I'm a writer/poet, and in all my years, I've found no other record that infuses my mind and body with such ecstatic electricity than this and Paul's first. Listening to him tear into his guitar and heart is like warm-up stretches for the soul. Somebody is watching over him.

  • inspiring
    author: Jean-François

    Merci Paul pour ce merveilleux cadeau qu'est "Songs for Devon Sproule". Il est rare d'entendre un artiste à la fois modeste et si doué. On prend un vrai plaisir à entendre Paul s'épanouir dans la musique. Merci pour l'inspiration JF http://perso.wanafoo.fr/riverratjimmy/ http://tromateaser.blogspot.com

  • Laying Down the Path for Others to Follow
    author: Zach Mandrake

    This makes it even more evident that Paul Curreri is one of the greatest artists working. Whether he's delicately illustrating a particular event in "Crozet Trestle Bridge" (The trestle bridge slid through the tree line / With a velocity like rust), swirling killer guitar gusto and patchwork scenery in "Fishbowl" (Hushed between the scotch and the spudnut / I was checking my bags / Heels cooling in a bucket, steam rising all John Hartford), or tossing the listener a bone as to some of the places his work is coming from (the especially flavorful version of Fred McDowell's "Louise"), Curreri's two-day effort sounds like a lifetime achievement. He's playfully, joyously, and quickly laying down some serious footprints. Congratulations to all involved with this work, and congratulations to all who purchase this stellar follow-up to a stellar debut.

  • Paul Curreri Stands Even Taller
    author: Regina Wilcox

    He did it again! The vast majority of artists would have surely buckled beneath the pressure of having to follow up such a mind-boggling debut as "From Long Gones to Hawkmoth." But here comes Paul Curreri, and less than a year later. This record is thematically expansive, spacially perfect (Paul's guitar playing has never felt so intimate), and as strong as Paul's heartfelt live performances. Kelly Joe Phelps knew just how to treat Paul's work, and the result is breathtaking. Those familiar with Phelps's music will quickly understand the connection between these two fabulous men... both dare to open themselves endlessly and generously. I feel honored to own this beautiful album documenting their obvious admiration for one another.

  • Paul da man
    author: Cas Lucas

    Paul and Kelly have done a great job of choosing the songs for this record and really capturing the feel of Paul's dynamic live shows. I had the pleasure of opening for him this past winter, and it was one of the greatest live music experiences of my career and my young life. I can't wait to see what both of these guys do next... and after that... and so on. CL www.caslucas.com San Francisco, CA

  • Haven't heard it but KJP at the helm can't be bad!
    author: Herve, pAris pAl

    Beneath A Crozet Trestle Bridge was one of my favorite tunes on the demo CDs I bought from Paul a couple of years back and I was disappointed not to find it on From Long Gones. Having it recorded it with Kelly Joe Phelps can't make it worse! Can't wait to hear Paul's new CD. Herve, pAris pAl www.mysongwriters.com

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