Dear August

Madison, Wisconsin seems to be putting out more than just Badgers these days.  A number of fine bands have come out of the Cheese State of late, including Dear August.  Their recent debut release Come In, Keep Dry is a great mix of Americana spiced by some Byrds-like guitars and nice vocals.  The band consists of Adrienne P. Cole (vocals/ acoustic guitar); Dan O’Brien (electric guitar, keyboards and vocals); Doug Milks (guitar and mandolin); Frank Torrey (bass); and T. Anderson Applegate on drums.  They are also joined on the CD by Natalie Garber on cello, Frances Dachelet on accordion and vocals, and Brett Favre on.....just checking if you’re paying attention! 

The first thing you notice about Dear August is the voice of Adrienne P. Cole. There is just something different about it.  She possesses the passion of a young Grace Slick and the uniqueness of Natalie Merchant.  The first line of the first tune, “Iron Will,” tells she means business; “Don’t come and find me when you need some.” The tunes are generally up-tempo and catchy but with a sense of seriousness to the sound.  “Jasper” features Dan O’Brien on lead vocals and definitely echoes the Byrds, especially the guitars.  Listen for the brash sound of Grace Slick’s Jefferson Airplane as Adrienne sings in “Slack Black Jacket;”
“Here I come around in a worn out sweater and I’m doing fine but I’ve been better.
Why don’t you ask me out, why don’t you follow me home. I like it best when I’m never alone, and I’m alone.”

The cello adds a bit of eerie mood to “Dressed in Blue.” The music also features lighter moments as on “Airport.” All of the tunes were written by Adrienne P. Cole except two by Dan O’Brien. The young band already has a great sound musically and especially vocally.  Check them out!