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"William Carpenter can sing. And, most importantly, it fits with the gentle, sleepy folk songs that he pens. On “In the Clouds,” a track that the singer-songwriter has put up for free download on his MySpace page, his voice—which sounds eerily similar to the old-man croak Beck has adopted for most of his post Midnite Vultures material—is the main instrument driving this lovely and ageless gem to embracing another year. Here the focus is almost squarely on Carpenter’s guitar and the words coming out of his mouth; listen carefully and you can hear some distant percussion and a few piano chords, but it aint much. With sparse accompaniment, you’re forced to pay attention to the core of the song and Carpenter’s endearing melody. “I grow old/ I grow old/ I will wear the bottoms of my trousers rolled,” he sings, slowly, in no rush to reach a conclusion. It may not be technically stunning, but then again, who would want that" - Willamette Week
"“Pine Trees In Winter” is a pretty great keyhole peek at what to expect - folky and atmospheric at the bright end of the psychedelic spectrum, with shining vocals, bells and simple guitars. It’s music born from Dylan and the earth and I can’t think of anything I’d rather be listening to while staring out of this old rain-stained summer window of mine." - Daydream Generation
"With a relaxed performance, and a passionate personality that came across to all, Will gave a strong performance with a great folk sound. This guy is touring Europe and impressed all at The Pilot Sessions." - thepilotsessions.co.uk
Currently Available
"A Private Tape"
William Carpenter has assembled the Troubadour family to record a collection of folk songs penned between Summer 2004 and Winter 2006. Produced by Collin Weiland and William Carpenter, featuring all kinds of instruments. All sleeves hand-screened. Limited to 500.
William Carpenter's Family Troubadour - A Private Tape
11 Tracks, $10. Available at Neverender World Cult, from CDBaby.com, iTunes and other digital distributors, as well as from me at any live show, or by e-mailing me.
"Lives in Smaller Houses"
Recorded between the dissolution of Will Carpenter's sound-art noodling of 2005 and today, "Smaller Houses" is a collection of messy home recordings ranging from solo acoustic, electronic, and full band material. Features covers of songs by The Good Life, Bob Dylan, The Mountain Goats, and more. Also unheard originals and new versions of previously released material. Limited to 50.
Will Carpenter - "Lives in Smaller Houses" (TTM 001)
15 Tracks, $2...Available from live shows and by e-mailing me.
"William Carpenter Sings"
Recorded in two nights over the summer of 2008, "Sings" collects the first set of "Portland Songs" and the characters therein. Recorded and Produced by Collin Weiland at Nicollet Park Recording Services.
"William Carpenter Sings" (TTM 002)
11 tracks, $5...Available at live shows or by e-mail.
Branches: Written Musings WORDS
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