Ben Sollee

Ben Sollee - Half Made Man (2012) {Tin Ear Records TER002}
XLD rip (secure mode) | FLAC (tracks)+CUE+LOG -> 209 Mb | MP3 @320 -> 87 Mb
Full Artwork @ 600 dpi (jpg) -> 41 Mb | 5% repair rar
© 2012 Tin Ear Records | TER002
Folk / Alternative Folk / Americana / Soul Folk / Cello

Musicians often claim they are giving themselves to their listeners, but it s rarely as true as on Ben Sollee s fourth album, Half-Made Man, a revealing, deeply moving album that explores a man trying to figure himself out, just as we all are. Known for his thrilling cello-playing that incorporates new techniques to create a unique mix of folk, bluegrass, jazz and R&B, Sollee possesses rough-smooth-smoky vocal stylings and a knack for intricate arrangements that has brought about comparisons to Sufjan Stevens. Sollee shares himself completely with his audience, whether it be by personal lyrics, or his commitment to the environment. Sollee can often be found riding a bicycle to his concerts (cello strapped to the back), which have become legendary for their intimacy.

Two singer songwriters meet for the first time. They have a day to compose a new tune. Possible? You bet! Learn the craft of songwriting with Ben Sollee and Erin Mckeown as they explore the depths of their creativity and emerge with an evocative new song.

Premier banjo player Béla Fleck is considered one of the most innovative pickers in the world and has done much to demonstrate the versatility of his instrument, which he uses to play everything from traditional bluegrass to progressive jazz. He was named after composer Béla Bartok and was born in New York City. Around age 15, Fleck became fascinated with the banjo after hearing Flatt & Scruggs' "Ballad of Jed Clampett" and Eric Weissberg and Steve Mandell's "Dueling Banjos," and his grandfather soon gave him one. While attending the High School of Music and Art in New York, Fleck worked on adapting bebop music for the banjo.