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Bon Ton Rouler may be a new band but for its main protagonists, Mick Major and David Duggan, it represents a new venture along a path that has been filled with all sorts of musical permutations and combinations.
Mick`s independent Label Buff Jerkin Records releases original titles such as the 2004 debut album by the “Freakin` Shams”, an extraordinary collection of rock songs by a band, fronted by Mick that included David as the main axeman both on the road and in the studio. During his tenure with the Freakin` Shams Mick performed on stage alongside acts such as Bell x1, David Geraghty and Damien Rice (Juniper). Earlier Buff Jerkin releases include “Along Daze End” (1991) and “Five” (1997)
David, an accomplished writer and performer has in the past worked as a guitarist for hire with a number of artists including Matt Lunson (One Day International), Ross Breen, David Geraghty (Bell X1) and American singer-songwriter Kierstin Gray. He has also spent a number of what he describes as “character building” years performing in pubs and bars at home and abroad.
BON TON ROULER is the result of a song writing and recording collaboration between Mick and David over the past year. The album features a set of nine tracks representing a selection of new material, giving a strong indication of their new stylistic direction. Although it has variously been described as an eclectic mix of Rock, Folk and Country blues with a smattering of electronica, it does not betray the authenticity of their rock allegiances.
“I Don’t Know”, the albums heaviest number, introduces a sledgehammer riff and some suitably psycho-country guitar, ...... “Change my mind”, an arresting melody featuring haunting layers of sound that employs an enosification of sorts influenced by some lesser known (oblique) strategies. Other highlights of the set include the country-tinged ‘High Time’, the folk-inflected ‘Behind Your Smile’, the Nick Drake inspired “Being Guided” while the opening track “Big Secret” marries many musical influences.
Commenting on the launch of BON TON ROULER, Manus Hanratty, the band’s manager, said, “I think the lads have managed to blend great sounds , great production and great songs to create an album that lovers of song-writing are going to want to hear and enjoy” Mick Major said “(Please buy our record, I’m Starving!!!)”
David Duggan said “We really feel that the songs speak for themselves, all we’ve tried to do is present them in the best light possible. I think that we’ve achieved that, which for no other reason has already made this venture a big success for us! Our next hope is that other people will think the same thing do!”