Search - Joe Pug :: Messenger

Messenger
Joe Pug
Messenger
Genres: Pop, Rock
 
  •  Track Listings (10) - Disc #1

After playing over 200 shows, including runs with Steve Earle, M. Ward and Josh Ritter, Pug took to the studio to record his sophomore release. While the Nation of Heat EP may have earned him the title of talent to watch, ...  more »

     
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CD Details

All Artists: Joe Pug
Title: Messenger
Members Wishing: 2
Total Copies: 0
Label: LIGHTNING ROD REC.
Original Release Date: 1/1/2010
Re-Release Date: 2/16/2010
Genres: Pop, Rock
Style:
Number of Discs: 1
SwapaCD Credits: 1
UPC: 804879209621

Synopsis

Product Description
After playing over 200 shows, including runs with Steve Earle, M. Ward and Josh Ritter, Pug took to the studio to record his sophomore release. While the Nation of Heat EP may have earned him the title of talent to watch, with Messenger, Pug explores new territory, sneaking pedal steel guitar into The Sharpest Crown and backing The Door is Always Open with a powerhouse rhythm section. He does not, however, let his solo charm escape the album. Songs like Bury Me Far (From My Uniform) and Unsophisticated Heart make it obvious that Pug is still master of the guy-and-the-guitar song.

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CD Reviews

A little more weary, but worth it
the_wordgirl | Denver, CO USA | 03/02/2010
(5 out of 5 stars)

"Back in October, I saw Joe Pug live with the brilliant Meg Hutchinson at Denver's Swallow Hill venue. It was truly a treat, especially given that the small stage made for a living-room atmosphere. I was a newer fan of both of the artists and really had no idea how good they both are, especially live. If you ever have a chance, you really must do everything you can to see them.



Joe's received many comparisons to Bob Dylan, and yes, Pug's music mimicks that sound from time to time. His lyrics can sometimes veer off down that road. There is a bit of Springsteen in his anthems, too. You'll hear some country/folky twang every so often, too. I don't mind any of the meanderings so much because Pug is just so layered and strong enough to pull it off.



I think the key to his ability to do so lies in Pug's massive voice. He sings it like he means it. He strums it like it's his last breath. His lyrics are powerful and much more than hum-worthy. When he rocks, he gets up. When he laments, you're pulled. Something I immediately noticed during his live show was Pug's massive knack for theatricism. His music is appropriately, and thoughtfully, moody.



That said, if you have seen him live, a lot of the songs are old friends. I prefer the live versions to the recorded versions, and I suppose, that's a good thing. I could do without some of the twangy background singers. Pug doesn't need it. This album feels a little world-weary, perhaps because it was produced during a time of difficulty for our nation. It makes sense because, at his core, Pug seems to be a uniquely American singer. This is especially evident in his Bury Me Far From My Uniform: "merciful God, please remember my face." For those who love that wistful vibe, check out Disguised as Someone Else. For those needing something more Springsteen than Dylan, try Speak Plainly, Diana and Messenger. My favorite of the disc, and Pug's entire discography, is How Good You Are--a bluesy compromise that showcases Pug's immense range.

"
Joe Pug Messenger
K. Thornton | Dublin, Ireland | 03/25/2010
(5 out of 5 stars)

"A fantastic album. Joe Pug is an amazing song writer and his voice is hauntingly brilliant. It won't be long before he's the next big thing!"