Album Notes

After three years of hard work and anticipation, The Spikedrivers announce the release of their debut studio album. The self-titled CD pays careful attention to detail on the band's most popular original works to date, as well as some lesser performed compositions. The recording showcases the amazing songwriting styles of Jesse Henry and is uniquely performed by an
outstanding group of musicians. While groups from around the country have put their own regional touch on Americana music, The Spikedrivers offer a "Rust Belt" edge, combining industrial town rock 'n' roll with country music.
The Spikedrivers album opens with The Ballad of John Dillinger, a song written about the famous outlaw who until now has gone without an anthem. While this song usually closes the evening at live shows, as the first track, it exposes the listener to The Spikedrivers hard hitting musical side. Compromised, the second selection, displays both the band's as well as Grammy award winning producer/engineer Jeff Ciampa's artistic prowess. From the soft gritty vocals to the ambient bowed bass solo and haunting refrain, Compromised captures the talent and ability necessary for the success of such an intricate piece. "Don't call me honey, I ain't that sweet" is the first line in Cuckoo, and one every lover can relate to at some point. The lyrics are appropriately accompanied by the "wall of strings" to create a beautiful song. Gospel and bluegrass roots resound on the choruses of Like Water and Let's All Go to Church. The rest of the album is a well balanced blend of blues, swing, and thematic songwriting that encourages the listener to play the album again and again.
The Spikedrivers emerged as a group in late 2003 out of a random meeting at a local open mic night. Singer/Guitarist Jesse Henry and double bassist Steven Fox joined together to perform a few songs. Both were recent college graduates with degrees in Jazz and Classical music respectively, and both shared a passion for American roots music. After one year of playing
together, The Spikedrivers expanded the ensemble to include Fiddler/Vocalist Megan Palmer who has worked with artists such as Luther Wright and the Wrongs, Tim Easton, Sara Harmer, and Rick Moranis. Guitar Magazine's Best Unsigned Guitarist Award recipient for 1990 and 1993, Paul Brown, adds his
technical mastery of the guitar and has also expanded the band's harmonic palette playing electric, 12-string, nylon string, and lap steep guitar. The line up also includes Nate Anders, virtuoso jazz vibraphonist turned country drummer and Steve Sweney, Lead Guitarist of Ekoostik Hookah. Within the past two years The Spikedrivers have continuously grown to be known as the cream of the crop in Ohio.
In the coming months The Spikedrivers are planning to tour throughout the country with the hope that their songs will be viewed as putting a meaning and message into music as well as spreading their infectious joy. For more information on The Spikedrivers and their recently released self titled studio album, please visit www.thespikedrivers.com or www.myspace.com/thespikedrivers.