JOHN FULLBRIGHT

Aiken Promotions presents

JOHN FULLBRIGHT

plus guests

Quite simply, 23-year-old John Fullbright is one of the most exciting singer-songwriters to emerge this decade. His astonishing debut album ‘From the Ground Up’ (Blue Dirt Records/Thirty Tigers) features 12 original songs bursting with a musical and lyrical prowess that belie his youth.

Born in Woody Guthrie’s hometown of Okemah, Oklahoma, he grew up surrounded by a rich musical heritage. He started playing the piano at 5 and learned to play guitar at the legendary Blue Door eventually supporting Joe Ely and Jimmy Webb.

His songs capture an America not heard on disc for a very long time and conjure up an authenticity that recalls all the greats. From the opening chords of ‘Gawd Above’ written through God’s perspective to the closing beauty of ‘Song for A Child’, John Fullbright marks his arrival in some style.

John co-produced the album with Wes Sharon (Doobie Brothers, Gregg Allman) and plays piano, guitar, harmonica and organ. Special guests include guitarists Terry ‘Buffalo’ Ware and Andrew Hardin on guitar and Fats Kaplan on violin and steel guitar.

One of the highlights of this year’s SXSW, John Fullbright has spent much of the year touring the USA where this album came out last May.

‘From the Ground Up’ is a lyrically diverse, genre-spanning collection of memorable songs with staggering depth and promise. His voice smoulders and his songs catch fire. ‘From the Ground Up’ is that all too rare creature: an album to cherish and admire.

“…telling stories that shed light on the human condition. Musically, he incorporates folk blues, gospel and Americana rock elements.” – LA Times

“This spring’s most appealing albums…if anyone came in doubting the groundswell of buzz that’s building around him and his From the Ground Up, they left convinced of his talents.” – Wall Street Journa

“a killer debut, pairing sharply worded stories that resonate with confident performances that pop” – Washington Times

“…it’s that youthful brashness that sets Fullbright apart from the singer-songwriter crowd.” – KUT

Tickets priced €18 (inc. booking fee) are on sale now through www.whelanslive.com, www.tickets.ie , www.ticketmaster.ie & usual outlets.

TICKETS

€18 available online from WAV Tickets [Lo-Call 1890 200 078] (50c per ticket service charge applies on phone or creditcard bookings)

Strictly over 18′s, I.D. may be required.

AFTER THE GIG

Whelan’s Indie Club w/ Late Bar from 10:30pm or check out the bands playing The Midnight Hour in the upstairs venue (FREE ENTRY, 12am).