Song Review:
Elmer's Tune
Overall Impression:
Originally reaching the charts by way of Glen Miller and his Orchestra in the early 1940's, "Elmer's Tune" features a down-tempo swing and a playful clarinet presence made all the more engaging by the more recent efforts of Nolan Bruce Allen and his hand-picked musicians! What puts the kick in a chicken or the magic in June? Nolan Bruce Allen's warmly warbling voice as it carries "Elmer's Tune"!
Strongest Point(s):
The full composition of NBA's sound in "Elmer's Tune" is completely classic but crisply contemporary - giving plenty of definition to each element of the recording in a way that simply enhances the song's immersive cohesion! Occupying a range extremely well suited for the artist's voice, this version of "Elmer's Tune" gives a particularly charming clarinet solo around the 1:40 mark, balancing each bar against the more traditional Western Swing solos that come behind. Excellent vocal work from each singer and a spectacular blend across the board!
Target Audience Appeal:
Whether hearing it for the first time or after appreciating the version that made it famous, Nolan Bruce Allen delivers "Elmer's Tune" in a way that brings the song's playful and self-referential lyrics to full life! Rich, warm vocal tones and a loving appreciation of songcraft conspire to bring "Elmer's Tune" back into the limelight nearly a century after its inception - with Nolan Bruce Allen and his passion for Western Swing leading the charge! - Jon W.
Artist target suggestions:
Spade Cooley & The Western Swing Dance Gang, The Sunshine Boys, Hank Penny and His Radio Cowboys, Bob Wills & His Texas Playboys, Billy Jack Wills & His Western Swing Band, Red Foley, Porky Freeman Trio, Jimmy Revard & His Oklahoma Playboys, Washboard Wonders, Jimmie Ballard, Homer Zeke Clemons
About The Reviewer:
Jon Wright is a 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 across a wide range of genres.
Vocals: Strength
Lyrics: Strength
Instrumental Performance/Execution: Strength
Melody/Rhythm: Strength
Arrangement/Flow: Strength
Recording Quality/Overall Mix: Strength.