When people complain about today's music, it's because they aren't looking hard enough to find the good stuff. Sunday, December 4, Examiner.com went in search of some good music in the depths of Williamsburg, Brooklyn and we found it at Public Assembly with Communion. Mumford and Sons' Ben Lovett's brainchild, the London-hatched rotating collection of musicians showcases some of the world's most unique new talents and will now be a monthly event at this stateside venue.
Teddy Thompson, Bhi Bhiman, Daniel Wayne, Balthrop Alabama, and DJ Jennie Wasserman made up the diverse assemblage of uninhibited, raw talent that filled the minimalist spot with dulcet sounds. One of the stand-outs of the night was Daniel Wayne, whose music was a cross between Harry Nilsson and the spooky tones of "Twin Peaks." "Beautiful Day," "Virgin Saint," "My Bed," and an untitled number were just of few of the from-the-gut songs the earthy musician performed. His voice was haunting and at the same time cheerful, a pleasing melodic paradox.
Examiner had a chance to chat with the gifted musician after the show.
Examiner: How long have you been singing?
Daniel Wayne: My whole life, since I was in grade school. My first solos were "Amazing Grace" and..."The Greatest Love of All."
Examiner: Those are classics, great songs to cut your teeth on. Where'd you grow up?
DW: South Ohio, so near Kentucky.
Examiner: How did that influence your music?
DW: I had a variety of influences, including R&B, performers like Babyface and Tony! Toni! Tone! Growing up in Cincinnati, I saw divisions in the community. That was an impetus for me to make my music the way it is today.
Examiner: How has your sound changed since you've been performing?
DW: When I first started out, about ten years ago, my sound was different, it had more of a grunge influence. I think I'm in a more unique place now. I feel like my music's more organic now, growing like a plant, and I'm harvesting the sounds.
Examiner: What are you working on now? What are your plans for 2012?
DW: This Friday I'll be playing at Maxwell's in Hoboken, New Jersey. Will be playing with Blitzen Trapper. And granted 2012 won't mark the end of the world!..I'm looking forward to touring in 2012 and recording...I'd like to play SXSW...hit Chicago and Nashville...I've played a couple of times in Los Angeles, once at The Mint and another time for an ASCAP event, but I'm really looking forward to doing more extensive touring.
Examiner: Have you released any music?
DW: I released a four-song EP on iTunes.
Examiner: Who would you like to collaborate with who you haven't?
DW: Gary Clark, Jr.! He is my favorite current guitarist.
Examiner: What's your favorite song of yours?
DW: Of mine...I'd have to say the untitled one. Haven't decided on a name for it yet, but that's my favorite!
It's only fitting that Daniel Wayne is part of the Communion music series because listening to him is an emotional as well as a cerebral experience. This singer-songwriter's brand of Americana soul is mesmerizing and not to be missed.
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