"Elegant, sophisticated and refreshingly open-hearted, singer-guitarist Margan pens wonderfully literate and melodically inventive songs that he has orchestrated for a most unusual but oh-so effective ensemble of musicians featuring drums, bass, keyboards, violin, cello, clarinet and flute. This is chamber music for the 21st century, and it simply sparkles."
-Greg Haymes, The Times Union
"Eric Margan’s songs and aesthetic are from another time: His musical influences seem drawn entirely from before he was born. His jazz-leaning, ornate, orchestral pop is unlike anything that’s come out of the Capital Region in as long as we can remember, and the band’s busy gig schedule has amassed them a devoted, even defensive, fan base. Trust us: This band will be going places."
-John Brodeur, Metroland
"Singer/songwriter Eric Margan’s unhurried melodies and subtle orchestrations are sweet and disarming. This accomplished multi-instrumentalist has been inspired by his time in the studio with folk and jazz heavy hitters Pete Seeger, Richie Havens and David Amram."
-Peter Wise, The Berkshire Fringe
BOOKING INQUIRIES:
Eric Margan
emargan at gmail.com
(518) 588-1511
The Red Lions emerged from Eric Margan’s musical endeavors over the past three years, a collection of songs written by recording layers of flutes, guitars, pianos, string orchestra, vibraphone and who knows what else. With the help and contributions of countless friends and colleagues, this project has turned into a debut full-length album, "Midnight Book." Throughout the recording process, Margan often called upon the aid of multi-instrumentalist Scott Kellerhouse and drummer/producer James Bertini. The recent addition of songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Rick Spataro has inspired a new collaboration and these four strong-willed men are currently writing and performing songs as "The Red Lions".
Live performances of Midnight Book feature various string, woodwind and brass players, but the core lineup is currently writing and performing as a 4-piece rock band.
The Red Lions are rapidly earning the respect and admiration of fans and bands, including opening for such acts as the Benevento Russo Duo and The Avett Brothers, recording sessions with Pete Seeger and Richie Havens, and playing a multitude of shows in the Northeastern United States.
This music draws on countless influences, and the borrowing and blending of musical elements result in an original sound to which most listeners reply with an affecting familiarity. The album opens with "You Are A Ghost," a haunting jazz-club ballad blending the lyrical style of Tom Waits and Sylvia Plath with the music of Billie Holiday and John Lennon, among others. A sombre tone is blended with vague hopefulness in the song "Bay of Naples," which pulls you in with its unhurried pulse, hinting at the lo-fi vibe of Iron and Wine. As the album progresses, songs are sung with humor and lightness such as the musical free-for-all of "I'll Never Know." "Old Man River" tells the story of an estranged marriage with a twist of murder and revenge. And so it goes through to the final notes, varied and astounding musical constructions coupled with clever lyrical depictions and impressions that wander from innocence to darkness, with skillful and unforeseen fulfillments that leave you wanting more.
Don't have a Myspace account? Contact The Red Lions directly via:
Ever wondered what to do in the event of a nuclear threat?
A while ago I found stuff that inspired me to make this film:
Living Under the Shadow of the Nuclear Umbrella
Both artistic (ensure you get the background music!) and educational, it primarily comprises official British government civil defence advice.
Though source materials are quite aged, much remains relevant today.
I encourage all to visit the YouTube page to learn more (Show support! Rate! Comment!) and responsibly circulate as widely as possible, here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UaIim3Rj7L4
Thanks for accepting me as a friend! I spent hours browsing music profiles last night and you guys were one of the only few good ones I found. I can't wait to hear new music in the future.
Much love, anthony
Oh no I don't know you're drummer, but I saw Eric play solo last night at Bowery Poetry Club. He played this slow, strumming song that I loved (I wish I knew the name!). Looking forward to seeing the whole band play live soon!
Good to have you as a friend! So great to see the internet in action this way, shortening distances between people.
I hope all's well with you and that you enjoy checking out my web site some time.
For occasional, new, refreshing, insightful and (possibly?!) valuable content, I encourage you to sign up for my free newsfeed/email newsletter (using the form on site at page right - high quality, low quantity, no spam!).
You might enjoy watching some of my films (use the on screen controls to skip between them):
That is awesome that you got to see him twice. The St. Louis MO gig was fantastic. The opening band was Heartless Bastards. We knew what they sounded like already and were excited for them also. It was a great night. Got to meet them all. Hopefully get to meet you someday soon. Your music is awesome. Will have to buy Midnight Book on Itunes soon. :)
Hello Eric! many thanks for your request, I'm very honoured with it. beautiful sound this sound of yours! I think you were right when you call out my ears to listen to you! Wish you all the best. i'll be around! Maria
