Erik Viel - Off the Beaten Path Review
by Gary Schwind
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Erik Viel alternates between instrumentals and songs with vocals. In the first four songs, there are two of each. "Southern Highway" an upbeat song featuring keyboards similar to Bruce Hornsby. "Wandering Blues" definitely has a blues base, with keyboards reminiscent of Booker T and the MGs. The two instrumentals are vastly different: one is a waltz and the other ("Bard of Ontario") was inspired by listening to Gordon Lightfoot."I'll be Loving You" has a groove that would make any Deadhead dance. This album includes a great rendition of John Prine's "Please Don't Bury Me" that definitely got my toes tapping. Viel also covers "Multi-Colored Lady" and really captures the spirit of Gregg Allman. Viel incorporates a lot of influences in these thirteen songs, from folk to blues and country. These songs are very rich and well-constructed. The vocals are never strained and the instrumentals are all very easy to listen to. This is a quality CD by a top-notch singer-songwriter. I expect a lot of good things from Erik Viel.
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Erik Viel - Off the Beaten Path
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