"Brantley epitomizes everything Rock & Roll stands for and I could not think of a better voice to deliver the punch...He is the Dali Lama providing World Peace in a sea of edgy, hardcore, underground southern rock." - The Tennessean
"He howls like a wildcat, shreds guitar and pounds a piano like a veteran of some long-forgotten honky-tonk war and writes songs with such grit you'd swear he is a cantankerous old man." - The Knoxville Daily Times
When Rick Brantley opens his mouth, it is time to listen. Behind his thunderous voice, pounding piano, and pulsing rock guitar lies a vision, or, as Brantley puts it, a "battle cry." Expect to discover the heart of the human existence: the desperation and disillusionment, cynicism and longing, but also an inexhaustible hope. It’s as if he has developed a true artistic detachment that bleeds authenticity. It is hard to believe that the music and lungs responsible for this authentic 21st century "millennium rock n' roll" originates from such a young Georgia native, but Brantley sees his youth as an asset.
On stage, Brantley's youthful energy collides with his world-weary insight, creating an irresistible friction. Though his fiery music could certainly stand alone, it is the often-wistful lyrics that give Brantley's songs their dimension. He gives rock n' roll a conscience and an overwhelming sense of triumph and couples that with a belief that music must be more than just a soundtrack. In his own words, he views himself and his music as "a mouthpiece for many things: tolerance, freedom, love, hope, justice, peace...war...God's instrument to change this world."
It seems Brantley has created the perfect balancing act. He combines Otis Redding's moan and Joe Cocker's growl with all the heart-pounding intensity of a breathless Bruce Springsteen. Add a horn section, a couple gospel background singers, and an unshakeable purpose, and you find yourself listening to Rick Brantley. It is the flickering human spirit standing up to the grit of reality.
Rick, we are all really proud of you here in Macon. I can't wait to get a CD. Looks like God is really blessing you. Congratulations! on the CD and being an Uncle!
Atlanta Music Guide is the place to go for more 500 Songs For Kids info and pictures than you could ever want! Make sure to check out the photo albums for pics of your performance and others!
Check out The Corner's review of Rick Brantley's show at Opelika's Eighth & Rail last weekend! Read it in the Nightlife section at www. thecornernews. com!
Bummed we missed your show on the 2nd, Cannot wait for the CD release at The Rutledge! You have incredible sound and you seem pretty social( always a lovely quality) Hope you have a great week.
