INTERVIEW: Joe Farren by Cyrus Rhodes IMD In lieu of your latest release what do you want fans to take from your music?  JF 'Open Skies' represents my progression at the craft of song writing as well as my life the last few years. Compared to the heart on your sleeve style of ‘Til The Day', my previous release, the songs on “Open Skies” are more focused, shorter, precise and a bit more playful. I went through an awful divorce and found myself free after being in a confining relationship and owning a house. My life went from extremely domestic to “free” quickly and I enjoyed every moment of my new found freedom. I was for the first time “living in the moment”. I indulged in ways I hadn’t in college. As soon as I slowed down and started writing about it, the songs just poured out of me. It’s personal, but I’m very happy with the outcome. The album has it all. Playful, serious, humorous, wild, sweet; it’s all there. After studying songcraft for so long and listening to all the writers I could, my time writing was spent trying to find the most interesting topics and stories I could. So when my personal life took a roller coaster ride I ended up with my own stories to write. That experience along with the practice and time spent working on songwriting was the perfect combination to make the most of these stories and characters. Still, these are universal stories and experiences. “Who’s that Standing in my Shoes” for example, is about anybody’s first love. I remember stumbling across my first flame’s wedding pictures on Facebook and that’s what planted the seed for that song. I went from looking at a computer screen to being a character invited to the wedding. That’s the beauty of songwriting. I focused more as a singer and writer on 'Skies' than on 'Til the Day' when I had focused on performing most of the instruments as well. Working with these guys in Nashville allowed me the freedom to just strum my guitar or play the piano and sing the songs. And man, did they have my back at every corner. I don’t see why I would ever want to do it any other way.   IMD How did this latest release come together?  JF I recorded most of  'Open Skies' in Nashville and it features a ton of Nashville studio players and music icons including Lance Hoppen from the band “Orleans”.  Lance played bass guitar on both of my albums.  Open Skies was produced by guitarist Jason Roller (Kelly Pickler, Winona Judd).    IMD Who are some of your top musical influences?  JF I was fortunate to have good music in the house as a kid.  I heard tons of good blues and r & b music.  Steve Winwood, Bonnie Raitt, Bruce Hornsby, Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, The Dead.  Their albums were always playing around the house.  I was pretty lucky to be exposed to such soulful music from the beginning, long before I was old enough to even play.  My first cassette tapes were Michael Jackson “Bad” and the first George Michael record. The one with “Faith” and “Father Figure” and all those great songs.  I still like those albums today.  I just loved the sound and groove of albums.  I remember hearing Bob Marley’s “Legend” album and was blown away at the different tones, rhythms and grooves. Portland Maine had such a great local scene too!  I loved the local bands.  Some of which I would end up sharing the stage with.  In Portland we had the Rustic Overtones and in New Hampshire we had Percy Hill and Say Zuzu.  All successful bands and local rock stars as far as anyone in New England was concerned. “In college I discovered contemporary country music, and fell in love. I remember the song that did it:  Jason White’s ‘Red Ragtop,’ as recorded by Tim McGraw. I like a lot of the New Folk music artists like Ellis Paul, Patty Griffin, Mark Erelli, Steve Earle etc. But I mostly listen to country music in search of those inspiring, perfectly-crafted songs.”   IMD At what point in your journey did you realize music was going to be the path you chose professionally? What made music “click” for you? JF I’m a pretty practical person with a good business sense.  It takes some convincing of my own to stay the coarse creatively.  But even now when I start to second-guess myself and my career, a song like “bridge over troubled water” will come on the radio.  One of those just perfect songs that make the hair on your neck stand up, the goose bumps appear, the tear come out of nowhere.  It’s those moments that it’s all clear.  It’s all I ever really wanted to do.  I’ve known that since I was 14.  I can’t imagine committing myself to anything else.  It’s a blessing and a curse I guess.  You know those people that just work for money so they can buy cool toys and live for the weekends?  That’s just not an option for a creative person.  They would die inside.  It’s a constant calling and a pressure but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.   IMD Who are some of your biggest musical influences (other musicians who have influenced the type of music you like to play most or the way you approach your development as an artist/songwriter)  JF  the first song I ever learned on guitar was “peaceful easy feeling”.  I still have my eagles songbook.  My mother had hired a family friend to do some painting in our house.  He was a Canadian guy and was schizophrenic.  Sweet man that just struggled through life dealing with his illness.  He showed me how to tune the guitar I stole from my brother and taught me that song.  He told me than, at 13 years old, that music is something that no one can take away from you.  He told me never to hold back, to just strum that guitar and sing   IMD How would you describe the way you approach songwriting, and what do you feel are some of your greatest strengths as a songwriter? JF There are no rules when it comes to songwriting.  That’s easier said than done especially when you’ve been studying the craft and striving to improve.  Its tough not to be over critical on yourself.  I try to separate the “stream of consciousness” moments when it all just pours out, from the skill and craft of making it all work.  It’s those 2 stages that get you somewhere.  They are separate things.  I’ll work on a song until it’s done.  I don’t rush anything.  I want every lyric to be perfect before I record it.  It’s a quality over quantity thing for me.  I experiment all kinds of ways when it comes to writing.  I love just picking up my guitar and notepad when the muse hits but also like co-writing with other writers, writing to tracks, and writing lyrics without any music or melody and adding it later.   IMD How have others described your music JF I was fortunate to have a great band teacher growing up, Mrs. Richardson.  She was tough but just a committed teacher.  The older I get the more I appreciate her passion and dedication.  She would always go above and beyond for her students adding electives for classes and traveling with the jazz band for competitions.  We had a love/hate relationship.  In fact, her son was in my class and we were inseparable.  We drove her nuts!  I remember my senior year I had this huge drum solo in jazz band.  I had rehearsed and practiced hard for this solo at home and couldn’t wait to start rehearsing it with the jazz band.  But during our rehearsal I realized I had mistaken the length of the solo counting normal when the piece was in double time.  Anyway, it was disaster and she gave me hell in front of everybody.  I remember approaching her about it after school wondering why she was so hard on me.  I wanted to explain my mistake and assure her I was grateful for the chance to perform this song.  She shut the door to her office and told me to sit down.  She explained that she could spend time yelling at other kids and treating everybody equal but that that approach would just be a waste of her time.  She said I really had something with music and the fact that she focused so much on me and would come down hard on me was because it was worth it, she knew I would benefit from the experience and take it with me into the future.  It was an awesome moment in my life and one of the first times a teacher had really treated me like an adult and was honest.  She trusted I wouldn’t go repeat what she said behind her back, and I didn’t.  Until now I guess…   IMD What is your favorite piece of music of all time and why? JF Hands down, “when a man loves a woman” the original, not the Michael Bolton version my mother tortured my ears with growing up!  That song is just soul music to a t.  honest, passionate, vulnerable, I just love it. That’s a record you can just feel in your bones.   IMD What is your favorite song from your most recent album?  JF Jeez… I don’t know.  My writing the last couple years has been more title or concept oriented and the majority of the songs on “open skies” started with a title or chorus.  But “who’s that standing in my shoes” didn’t.  that started with a verse.  I spent months perfecting that song but the first version just came out of the air one night.  I couldn’t write fast enough.  I love it when that happens!  I knew I had stumbled onto something special.  I felt the same way years ago when I wrote the title track for “til the day”.  It’s songs like those that the make me wonder if I’ll ever top them.  You hear famous songwriters talk about that feeling like they never even wrote their songs, that they just pulled them out of the air.  I thought that was kind of cheesy but it has happened to me if only a couple times.  Most of the time it’s self-discipline and throwing out 90 percent of what I write!” - Cyrus Rhodes

Indie Music Digest Interviews Joe Farren

Joe Farren drops “Open Skies”  Published on October 11th, 2013 Farren grew up in Portland, Maine in a home that vibrated with the harmonious grooves of country, folk, pop and R&B greats like Roy Orbison, Jerry Lee Lewis, Hank Williams, Jr., Elton John, Steve Winwood and Bruce Springsteen. His instinctually-impeccable musical ear allowed him to accurately identify singers on the radio at a young age. Once his fingers began to explore the keyboard and the guitar, he found those 50s rock blues riffs with ease and began to emulate his favorite players. To date Farren has released three recordings. “Till the Day” “Open Skies” and “Open Skies (Acoustic demos)”. “Open Skies” (his latest) is built upon a solid framework of warm tones, full tilt subject matter, thought-provoking lyrics and lasting melodies. Touches of Americana, rock, folk and Contemporary Country pop music are interspersed throughout most of Farren’s songs. Somehow he manages to avoid ever getting categorization into any one of those genera groups. Farren is not country, he’s not die hard Folk or Americana, he’s not Blues of Pop/Singer/Songwriter – he’s a little of everything. Bruce Springsteen is kind of the same artist – difficult to classify. “Open Skies” is a solid release that gracefully moves up and down the emotional spectrum of modern folk-Americana thick with satire and melodic landscaping. Opening with the brilliant “Not Worth Writing About” this song gets things going in high gear. The CD doesn’t let up either. From the first few tracks “Who’s that Standing in My Shoes”, “Jove Junkie” and “Drinking to Forget What’s Her Name” to the final piece If “I Fall Down” this album really hits on all cylinders. “Open Skies” is an eclectic mixture of all the best modern Americana Folk, Singer-Songwriter has to offer. Despite this Farren is not easily pigeonhole-able. The music herein is perfect for jamming out to, or playing in the car for a long drive but it delivers everything the title implies. More importantly Farren delivers amazing lyrics and everyday simple subject matter that will cause you to reflect on his messages about the human condition – which is far from a perfect condition. Farren reminds me of Mat Kearney, Amos Lee, Keith Urban, Edwin McCain and Tyler Hilton and a folksy version of Bruce Springsteen. While each track does have a unique feel and groove to it, every song on “Open Skies” delivers some red hot playing that will cause your head to turn and lyrics that will cause your mind to explore. His voice is somewhat artistically beautiful while retaining a masculine fullness that compliments the skillful array of sounds that compliment the rest of the songs. Some other tracks that stand out for me are: Four-Letter Word, The Tail is Waggin’ This Dog Again, American Dream. To sum it up: I give “Open Skies” an enthusiastic 4 out of 5 stars and highly recommend this album to any fan who wants more than overly synthetic pop rock to fill their atmosphere. So grab yourself a copy of any of his 3 albums linked below and kick up your heels to some solid playing, some of the best songwriting I’ve heard this year. Official URL: http://www.joefarren.com/ CD BABY: http://www.cdbaby.com/artist/JoeFarren Rating: 4/5 Stars Review by Trevor Grey (UK) edited by Heather Savage Review comments; heathersavage5@gmail.com” - Trevor Grey (UK) edited by Heather Savage

GigBand.com Reviews "Open Skies"

Open Skies by Joe Farren   So who is Joe Farren anyway? Joe Farren composes warmly-layered tunes about heartbreak, first love, sacrifices, memories, joy and other realities of humankind. His narrative lyrics and sincere performances reveal life’s extraordinary moments and his own vivid, personal adventures. Gfarren recently moved from Maine down to Tampa Florida. Since moving to Florida in 2011 Farren has maintained a rigorous gigging schedule, playing at venues including the Ritz in Ybor City, The Hideaway Café, The Vinoy, the Don Vicente and many others while feverishly writing fresh material. He first traveled to Nashville in 2011 in order to get closer to the energetic, expert songwriting in Music City and on return trips has played at Bluebird Café and Douglas Corner Café. It was during that first trip to Nashville that he met hit songwriter Steve Seskin, who motivated him to put together his sophomore album, Open Skies, produced by guitarist Jason Roller (Kelly Pickler, Winona Judd). Bass player Lance Hoppen (Orleans) contributed to the album along with a slew of talented Nashville studio players. His latest album “Open Skies” was released in 2013 and pretty much delivers a strong collection of music that really showcases all the powerful elements of Americana Folk, Singer/Songwriter with a dash of Country and Blues. For the more mainstream listener, “Open Skies” will no doubt make a splash and prove to be very enjoyable. The song structures are well developed and pretty simplistic all around. I might add some of the greatest songs of all time are so simple. Case in point: “You are so Beautiful” by Joe Coker – one of the greatest love songs of all times is painfully simple piece that moves me to tears every time I hear it. As far as love songs go I’m not hearing a whole lot of that here on “Open Skies” That and it’s painfully obvious to me this lad is single with songs like “Not worth Writing About” and “Dirking to Forget What’s Her Name.” Farren also takes it a step further on “Love Junkie” and “The Tail is Waggin’ This Dog Again” Despite this there’s still a lot of emotion and variety on many pieces like “American Dream” and “If I Fall Down” that show this is a man of substance and character. Lush musical textures open up many songs flawlessly providing well placed Acoustic guitar, drums, percussion, background vocals and harmonies, fiddles and piano. Did I Mention Farren plays both Piano and Guitar. Much of Farren gives way to a more stripped back roots of classic Folk and Americana. I look at Farren I see a modern day version of Jimmie Rodgers, Dock Boggs or Dave Van Ronk. The vocals make a real impact as Farren displays a delicate baritone meshed well with the songs like “21 Days” and “Side by Side” well. The only negative aspect: it almost feels as if Farren is spreading himself out to thin. He’s a bit of everything but this approach can cause a potential fan to lose focus. I would recommend Farren narrow the fairway a bit with respect to his overall signature sound on future releases. Bottom Line: “Open Skies” is a great album and is not far from groundbreaking for Farren. It has some real magical moments on but mostly it’s a good timing, saloon sipping total package of music. It might actually be the start of something special for Farren in 2013. People who like their music upbeat, folksy, with a slice of country, earthy rockabilly, carefree and simplistic staple will really like Joe Farren. When it comes right down to it “Open Skies” should please a pretty wide swath of listeners.Rating/8.5/10 Stars By Loren SperryEdited by Heather Savage” - Loren Sperry

Vents Magazine Reviews "Open Skies"

American roots-rocker Joe Farren is back  Rating: 9.0/10  American roots-rocker Joe Farren is back with his latest release "Open Skies" which is a cheeky harangue to a culture held in thrall of smartphones. Citing his bio: His creative mission is clear: When I'm driving late at night with a thousand concerns going through my head, and a song like "The Dance" or "Bridge Over Troubled Water" comes on the radio, everything just disappears. I strive to write that perfect song that makes the hair on your neck stand up, the goose bumps appear, the tears come out of nowhere that love song that makes you stop for a minute and brings you back to the beginning. It's all I've ever really wanted to do. It's a constant calling and a pressure, but I wouldn't trade it for anything. These 11 delivers a stunning truly passionate musical approach to the human experience. Farren to me writes songs about the people, places and things and the status of our culture, with a healthy combination of humor, skepticism, and honesty. I get the impression Farren questions what he already knows, and asks listeners to join him in viewing life from a different angle. Melding a unique yet accessible blend of 50's style rockabilly guitars, hooky songs and melodies, tasty harmonies, groove-ridden bass lines and an infectious vocal front , Farren brings it home. Indeed the retro Farren sound is a testament to how he insists on shifting the face of folk-pop-rock. Enter the mind musing, comical trip of the latest string of songs on "Open Skies" this is one artist that's meshes full tilt playing with Red, White and Blue music. This is a life's opus if you will that skirts the lines of life from a causal observers point of view. As a result "Open Skies" is a very human blend of Farren's comical spin on life through his music. Take a listen to "Love Junkie", "Four-Letter Word" and "The Tail is Waggin" This Dog Again" to see this tongue and cheek side. Not to be underestimated either Farren also possesses very tender earthy tones via painfully simple thoughts and subject matter. Listen to "Who's That Standing in my Shoes" and "American Dream" for that side. "Open Skies" by Joe Farren is a jumpy brawly CD full of music that can be listened in virtually in any situation. The songs on the album will encourage you to tap your foot, but also get delve into other emotions. Listen to the final track "If I fall Down" to hear a great send off track. Farren will remind you of Gavin DeGrew, Brad Paisley, Drive-by-Truckers, and Uncle Tupelo. Joe Farren is one definitely one artist wworth checking out (live or studio). His soulful rock steady sound and unique perspective on life can be appreciated by all fans of music, from Nashville to New York City. by Kim Muncie edited by Markus Druery Review comments: marktheshark972@gmail.com Rating: 9/10 ” - Kim Muncie. Edited by Markus Druery

MusicEmissions.com Reviews "Open Skies"

Joe Farren delivers Open Skies Posted by Mr. Blackwell on Oct 4, 2013 Band: Joe FarrenAlbum: Open SkiesGenera: Pop, Blues-Rock, Singer-SongwriterLocale: Tampa Bay, Florida URL: http://www.joefarren.com/ Official Rating: 7/10 This is the second release from Joe Farren a Florida based Singer/Songwriter. How would one describe Farren? Americana singer/songwriter and recording artist Joe Farren crafts warm, lively tunes that chronicle complex human relationships and life’s many adventures. Farren’s discovery of the thriving local band scene in Portland as well as of alt-country dynamos like Ryan Adams and The Jayhawks and contemporary country artists like Phil Vassar and Keith Urban finally inspired him to believe fully in his own ability to tell relatable stories through beautifully-rendered Americana music: “When I discovered contemporary country music, I fell in love. I remember the song that did it: Jason White’s ‘Red Ragtop,’ as recorded by Tim McGraw. I like a lot of the New Folk music artists like Ellis Paul, Patty Griffin, Mark Nowadays making music is so accessible to anyone and being that most have the do it yourself attitude, it just makes sense. Most artists are not waiting for someone to make their dreams come true, they are doing it themselves. His latest album “Open Skies” is a unquestionably a bright, cheerful album. And all 11 tracks provide an intensely exhilarating listening experience that can tingle the senses into submission. In this aspect I think I get Farren 100%. If you’re looking for a sappy sing songy love record this is not for you. Joe Farren delivers a well crafted middle ground between hooky-catchy songs and raw honest blues-rock subject matter. I guess the closest artist I would compare him to would be Josh Ritter. I can also however hear Bob Dylan, Pete Yorn, Dawes, John Rouse, and Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit. Most listen to music as a way to buzz the senses during any activity – concerts, clubs, dancing, exercising, getting drunk, all of the above and more – you get it. Some want to hear about love songs while other listeners want to go deeper into rough and tumble territory. This describes Farren really well and all this music showcases a wide degree of personality he brings to the table behind either a Guitar or Piano. From one of his more starker tracks “American Dream” and If I Fall Down” to rocking “The Tail is Waggin’ This Dog Again” to straight forward “Who’s That Standing in My Shoes” and taboo “Four Letter Word” to defiant ”Not Worth Writing About” any music fan can find something they would enjoy in this mixture of songs. As you would expect “Open Skies” will give you everything the title implies and offers an ample listening environment with a spirited youthful sound that appeals to many. It will also encourage you to delve in life’s wild and unpredictable ride. I think Farren deserves a lot of credit for bringing all this together. In the end “Open Skies” presents an energetic, stimulating sound that can be appreciated by anyone that enjoys music, even those who typically may not enjoy Rockabilly, Country or Americana-Blues for that matter. I enjoyed this album sitting on my couch on full blast, with eyes closed eager to see where the musical journey took me .To be honest I had a few beers at my disposal. This sounds so simple but it’s in this setting the journey of Joe Farren can be greatly appreciated by many. Rating 8/10 by J.J. McCall edited by Janne Zawa. Approved by Drew Blackwell (UK). Review comments: jannezawa@gmail.com” - Posted by Mr. Blackwell

Rock N' Roll View Reviews "Open Skies"

Joe Farren – Open Skies Joe FarrenOpen Skies (2013) URL: http://www.joefarren.com/ Score – 9.5/10 Stars This CD “Open Skies” by Florida based Joe Farren is sure to one day be remembered as one of the classic good timing Americana CD’s of recent time. Its pure rocking Americana-Country music the way it used to be, full of cautionary tales, whiskey drinkin’ and a passion for life on the road. All of this describes Amercana to a “T”, So who is Farren anyway? The Portland Press Herald declared him “a solid songwriter who draws on life experiences from both the interior and exterior vantage point.” His narrative lyrics and sincere performances offer an unobstructed view into the heart of an artist who embraces each moment. Farren grew up in Portland, Maine moved by the harmonies and rhythms of country, folk, rock and R&B luminaries like Hank Williams, Jr., Elton John, Jerry Lee Lewis and Bruce Springsteen. “Open Skies” will take you back to a simpler time, before people started airing their dirty laundry out on the Radio to dry. From beginning to end “Open Skies” lets it all hang out with catchy vibe, fun musical landscape full of power and happy go luck overtones. One thing that impressed me the most about this album/band is the sheer “good time rag” vibe one gets. There’s an Americana ambience that really sucks in the listener into Farren’s musical world – very professional. The instrumentation and tones give you that genuine feel of good music and writing from a generation ago. It also has a solid feel reminiscent of Country music popular in the early nineties as well. Farren reminds me of a modern day version of Whiskeytown, Jesse Malin, Justin Townes Earle, Wilco, Neal Casal, and Jason Isbell. All members in Farren’s band are solid musically. Kudos goes out to the amazing songwriting from Farren. I always said you can sell what you don’t believe in, here Farren captures Lighting in a Bottle that will ring true not only for older more experienced listeners but new ones as well. My favorite tracks are: Who’s that Standing in My Shoes, American Dream, 21 Days and Get Ready. “Open Skies” wraps up a well rounded 11 track set that delivers an interesting cross section of classic Americana Folk-Rock, and Classic Country. Despite this it is accessible to modern day listeners as well. How is this possible? Only an experienced artist armed with an honest, genuine, sincere approach can pull it off, Farren is also backed up by some solid players, a solid production instinct via his brilliant musical mastermind. Need I say more? REVERBNATION – http://www.reverbnation.com/joefarren Posted by Scottie Carlito edited by Markus Druery. Approved by Michael Rand.Comments: jannezawa@gmail.coml” - Posted by Scottie Carlito edited by Markus Druery

All Whats Rock Reviews "Open Skies"

Joe Farren releases Open Skies Posted on October 4, 2013 Artist: Joe Farren CD: Open Skies URL: http://www.joefarren.com/ While it is true many feel the music industry is in disarray it’s always a breath of fresh air to hear a new band or artist that’s not afraid to take chances with their musical expression. With Florida based Joe Farren’s latest musical offering “Open Skies” it’s clear to me he has surpassed what many consider to be the a-typical musical release. First a bit about Joe. Farren grew up in Portland, Maine moved by the harmonies and rhythms of country, folk, rock and R&B luminaries like Hank Williams, Jr., Elton John, Jerry Lee Lewis and Bruce Springsteen. Early on, he hammered out blues riffs on the piano, then picked up a second-hand drum kit and became a fast, proficient drummer and percussionist, playing not only drums but also keyboards and guitar with a variety o fNew England bands on bills with the Mighty Mighty Bosstones, Veruca Salt, the Rustic Overtones and many others. While studying classical and jazz music at the University of Southern Maine, Farren connected deeply with alt-country and contemporary country dynamos like Ryan Adams, The Jayhawks and Keith Urban that were telling relatable stories through exposed, emotional poetry and multi-layered, crisp recordings. Thus began his journey to make sincere, textured music that captures the vibrant colors of Americana and folk culture. From the beginning to end “Open Skies” gives you an Americana anthem with a string of catchy songs that will keep the listener entertained. Also present are messages that are uplifting and a vibe that is unmistakably, well “Joe Farren”. Farren combines many impressive musical styles: like retro Pop of the 70’s and even Mo-Town, Blues, Jazz and traditional Soul Rock and even Country. Some pieces I really like are “Love Junkie” with its clover message, and “Four-Letter Word” and “Side by Side” which expands the possibilities as a possible radio hit in the making. The production is also top notch and the playing from all other band members just hits the spot. Joe Farren creates a sound that will make virtually any listener feel right at home. As a vocalist Farren delivers a gifted vocal timber that glides with precision with just enough technicality and just enough soul and twang. ON many tracks Farren performs a multitude of amazing harmonies and delivers a warm vocal timber throughout. If you like Jack Johnson, Joe Ely, John Prine, Dwight Yoakum you will like Joe Farren. Much of Farren goes beyond traditional playing and songwriting. Lyrics are also an important component for me whenever I listen and review music. In this aspect Farren paints you an impressive story visual between the spoken word with messages of hope, love and the love of life itself. “Open Skies” delivers amazing music for the senses that has no boundaries – very much like the road of life itself. Rating 4.5/5 Stars Social Networking: FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Joe-Farren/173391089416231 TWITTER: https://twitter.com/joefarrenmusic Reviewed by: C.C. Ryder edited by J.J McCall. Review comments: johnmccall964@gmail.com Please Share This:        ” - Reviewed by: C.C. Ryder. Edited by J.J McCall

Indie Artists Alliance Reviews "Open Skies"

Joe Farren – Open Skies Posted on October 10, 2013 by Dan Harr by Heather Savage / edited by Janne Zawa His critically-celebrated debut album,‘Til the Day was released in 2007 and led to an extensive East-Coast tour, spins on national radio stations and a spot as a headliner on the Maine Songwriter’s Association’s annual Old Port Festival. Farren moved to Florida in 2011 and writes fresh material while maintaining a rigorous live performance schedule at venues up and down the East Coast. His latest release, Open Skies was recorded in collaboration with Nashville-based producer Jason Roller (Kelly Pickler, Winona Judd). Renowned bass player Lance Hoppen (Orleans) performs on the album along with a slew of talented Nashville studio players. Open Skies is a musical book of character-driven short stories that range from serious and sweet, to humorous and wild. Open Skies & ‘Til The Day are available on iTunes and through the artist’s website. Open Skies is Farren’s latest release and has much to commend it. Admittedly, there is a whole lot of variety to these arrangements and performances. First: Farren and his impressive band delivers rock solid playing like a well oiled machine. This is testament to hundreds of hours of rehearsal time no doubt. Second: farren himself possesses a look and voice and an impassioned writing style that hits the mark remarkably well within the country-pop music arena. He has the attributes required of an effective singer/songwriter. Third: his sound and amazing songwriting touch are as good as it gets within modern folk-pop. All songs are a skillful combination of country pop rock yet with a slight Folk-Alternative Rock aftertaste that reminded me of Shayne Ward, Joe Ely, John Prine, Jerry Jeff Walker and even Buddy Miller to John Mayer. Farren has all the creativity and songwriting prowess to be extremely dangerous. What am I trying to say – well let me start by saying there is nothing fake and superficial about Joe Farren and his music. It’s nice to know some artists still take their soul into the studio with them rather then leave it at the door. Not every square inch is filled with musical ambience delivered under duress – but musical space this allows the music to breathe on its own with passion that cannot be faked. Equally as impressive is how marketable this catalogue truly is. It covers so much ground and despite this manages not to spread itself to thin across to many lines – nice touch. I’ve always said if you can play it a party or a gathering, then it’s marketable. The music is very, very, very marketable – with a fresh sound that delivers a passionate optimism very much like Farren himself. My favorite songs are the hot ones: Love Junkie, Four-Letter Word, Not Worth Writing About and The Tail is Waggin’ This Dog Again. Criticism: None Conclusion: Let me go on record by stating Joe Farren has no real weaknesses that I can see and hear. He has everything and this latest string of songs on Open Skies are an endearing statement limited by nothing. I would imagine in time we will hear more from this artist from Tampa in the years unfold. Time will tell but I can honestly say this is one artist that is set up for marketable success down the road with her musical personality and fresh sound that gives modern country-pop-folk a well needed wake up call. Rating 4.5/5 ” - Heather Savage of Musicnewsnashvile.com

Music News Nashville Reviews "Open Skies"

Joe Farren, Open Skies October 7, 2013 By Skope Most would agree most popular artists out there have something truly special to give to their fans. This goes above the typical attributes like raw talent, amazing songs, nice voice, or even a very marketable look, sound & image. There’s something truly infectious at the core of these artists that simply makes us feel good when we listen to them. Whatever “it” is – they all seem to have “it”. Today I listened to the latest CD from Tampa based Singer/Songwriter/Guitarist Joe Farren who just released his latest CD entitled: “Open Skies” in 2013. Venturing to his website I get the impression this is one artists who is extremely determined, dedicated and passionate about the songwriting craft. Farren grew up in Portland, Maine in a home that vibrated with the harmonious grooves of country, folk, pop and R&B greats like Roy Orbison, Jerry Lee Lewis, Hank Williams, Jr., Elton John, Steve Winwood and Bruce Springsteen. His instinctually-impeccable musical ear allowed him to accurately identify singers on the radio at a young age. Once his fingers began to explore the keyboard and the guitar, he found those 50s rock blues riffs with ease and began to emulate his favorite players. From start to finish this CD from Farren is a very entertaining musical experience all around. It has a very warm and inviting Pop-Folk quality to it, and even dabbles in Americana and Bluesy-Rock. It also reminds me of classic John Mayer, Bob Dylan, Robert Earl, John Hiatt and Guy Clark. Any fans of any of these musical styles or bands will enjoy this latest release from Farren. I can’t help but hear a bit of Woody Guthrie influence in there as well. It’s clearly marketed for those who like a male folk vocal front with sizzling musicianship in the background. I get the impression Farren is being true to himself as an artist via this compelling 11 track line up. In other words he hits the mark remarkably well by just by being who he is musically – a real soul searcher. The songwriting is impressive enough and digs a bit deeper than the next independent artist. Within each one of these pieces Farren bares his soul and delivers what I would call pure musical mojo. It offers much in the way of a compelling/thought provoking musical landscape. The playing from his band is spot on and just makes the whole CD even more enjoyable. The overall vibe of the production is very honest, sincere, passionate and captivating with pockets of hope shining through. I see Farren as a real undiscovered diamond in the rough, with an amazing amount of potential. As time goes by we will no doubt hear more from him. Let me go on record and say Joe Farren is a lucrative recorddeal waiting to happen. I also wouldn’t be surprised to hear more of him on Prime Time Radio someday or even in a featured in film or a TV production. In close most famous artists out there have “it” I’m not so sure what “it” is but Joe Farren has whatever “it” may be. URL: http://www.joefarren.com/ Score – 4/5 Stars Michael Morrison West Lothian, Scotland (UK)Edited by Mindy McCall I-TUNES – https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/joe-farren/id260586599 Review comments: indiemindymccall@gmail.com ” - Michael Morrison West Lothian, Scotland (UK)
 Edited by Mindy McCall

Skope Entertainment Reviews "Open Skies"

A Barnburner - INDIE MUSIC DIGEST-  CD REVIEW: Joe Farren - Open Skies by: Cyrus Rhodes Florida based Americana artists Joe Farren just released his latest CD entitled Open Skies.  Since moving to Florida in 2011 Farren has maintained a rigorous gigging schedule, playing at venues including the Ritz in Ybor City, The Hideaway Café, The Vinoy, the Don Vicente and many others while feverishly writing fresh material.  He first traveled to Nashville in 2011 in order to get closer to the energetic, expert songwriting in Music City and on return trips has played at the Bluebird Café and the Douglas Corner Café. It was during that first trip to Nashville that he met hit songwriter Steve Seskin, who motivated him to put together his sophomore album, Open Skies, produced by guitarist Jason Roller (Kelly Pickler, Winona Judd).   A slew of talented Nashville studio players contributed to the recording process including renowned bass player Lance Hoppen (Orleans). The CD kicks off the ground nicely with Track 1, “Not Worth Writing About”, a jumping flowing intro piece that serves up slamming harmonica, Saloon style Piano, and a guitar driven groove meshed against walking bass lines, effective harmonies and a soulful melody from Farren. Track 2, “Who’s that Standing in my Shoes” shifts gears a bit with steady flowing rhythm and well placed guitar chops painted against a grand slam chorus making for an impressive follow-up statement. Track 3, “Love Junkie”, is another impressive groove that dishes out rock steady rhythm, impressive and shall we say thought provoking lyrical content that flows and ebbs its way through to motional fruition. The CD makes a great first impression dishing out 3 rock solid songs in a row. The musicianship of everyone involved is above the bar. I would classify this music as classic Pop, Americana, with brief touches of Modern Country and even Saloon Jazz to R&B. The music is reminiscent of classic Lyle Lovett, Delbert McClinton, and Buddy Miller. Along the way you will notice lush instrumentation with things like impressive harmonica, piano, dobro, fiddles, organ, rhythm and solo guitar, well placed percussion, Hammond Organ, and lush harmonies layered everywhere all built upon a thick as a brick rhythm section. What I like the most about this band is how well they seem to groove together, testament to hundreds of hours of writing and rehearsal time no doubt. Now turning our attention over to Farren - as for his vocal abilities well he’s a great advent. His voice goes down smooth and fills the space peacefully and unobtrusively with a timber that is simply infectious. I might add he takes some impressive vocal risks indicating to me a confident vocal ability. Farren also plays Guitar and Piano on the album. All songs are extremely well crafted and consistent across the board - world-class songwriting. This CD from Farren delivers 11 solid tracks all providing musical enjoyment filled with strong musical variety and diversity. The music of Joe Farren has everything you would expect from a world-class musical production. From slamming ‘Drinking to Forget What’s Her Name” to melodic “Side by Side” to rocking “Get Ready”, “Four Letter Word” and “The Tail is Waggin' This Dog Again” to smooth as silk  “American Dream” and “21 Days”, this CD has something for just about everyone. The CD ends with Track 11, "If I fall Down”, the perfect finale statement for a CD like this.     It’s hard to find any serious weaknesses with this release. I do however wish there were more extended solo segments throughout the catalog. I also recommend Farren somehow bring more vocal emotion to the table on some of his performances. This can be done by providing more vocal peak and valley within the vocal delivery. Just listen to Joe Cocker’s “You are so Beautiful” or R.E.M “Hairshirt” to see what I’m talking about. At the end of the day people don’t buy paper and plastic, they buy emotion. It's a critical component especially within this genre.  Perhaps dedicate 1 or 2 pieces on future release to this slow heart stopping emotional writing style, and a few movements that really showcase his pin drop vocal skills.    From start to finish Open Skies by Joe Farren is a barnburner collection of music. The songwriting – the gold standard, all consistent musical experiences, each one possessing a unique personality, flair, and signature groove. Note for note, song for song there isn’t really one weak piece on this entire catalog. The writing and playing abilities of Farren and company are rock solid. The melodies and harmonies are well crafted, and the lyrical content is packed to the hilt with good old fashioned no holds barred R&B-Pop-Rock swagger. At the end of the day Joe Farren brings the mojo and is clearly a marquee talent based out of Florida. One would be wise to keep a watchful eye on him over the years to come.” - Cyrus Rhodes

INDIE MUSIC DIGEST Reviews "Open Skies"

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