Song Review:
Cherokee Maiden
Overall Impression:
Nolan Bruce Allen may very well be the King of Western Swing! Tapping into the Western Swing sound with style and skill, Nolan Bruce Allen's song, Cherokee Maiden, boasts riveting instrumental performances, a toe-tapping feel, and richly authentic vocals from NBA himself - all culminating in a smooth, jazzy tune with an infectious hook!
Strongest Point(s):
The instrumental work in this song is phenomenal! From the first moment between piano, fiddle, and drums, the listener's attention is grabbed - and the ensuing melodies are really pleasant. The various voices are all wonderfully articulate - not a solo felt out of place or overblown. Big fan of the guitar tone at 2:10, as well as the descending line used - very exciting! Nolan's vocals are endearing, the connection to the artwork is obvious, and that sort of passionate attachment to the work comes through the sound to make it appealing and accessible. This is highly musical - expertly executed and recorded!
Target Audience Appeal:
Western Swing is a genre that begins to seem more like a way of life. Fans of the sound find themselves chasing the high of participating in such a rich tradition, either as players or listeners - and Nolan Bruce Allen delivers the fix! Expert instrumental work with the staple sounds of the genre combine with the undeniable musicality of Nolan Bruce Allen to produce a delightful tune with plenty of replay-ability. Cherokee Maiden is a strong representation of the musically riveting world of Western Swing! - Jon W.
Artist target suggestions:
Spade Cooley & The Western Swing Dance Gang, Novi Novog, Tex Williams & His Western Caravan, The Maddox Brothers & Rose, Carolina Cotton Pickers, Bob Wills & His Texas Playboys, Red Foley, Sons Of The West, Craig Duncan, Crystal Springs Ramblers, Swift Jewel Cowboys, Rose Maddox
About the Reviewer:
Jon Wright is a classically trained multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, and music educator with nearly twenty years of experience in the field. Working with musicians and their individual sounds is his passion and profession, and he strives to interact with and understand every aspect of the production process - from theory and songwriting to recording and mastering. He continues to teach students of all ages and is currently collaborating with artists in a wide variety of genres.
Vocals: Strength
Lyrics: Neutral
Instrumental Performance/Execution: Strength
Melody/Rhythm: Strength
Arrangement/Flow: Strength
Recording Quality/Overall Mix: Strength