Shawn Nelson Music



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Record Review: "Ain't No Easy Way"

Melodic Sunburst Recommendation: Ain’t No Easy Way

April 8, 2009

Where does faith begin? Will it start with the omnipresent power of a higher power? Does it lie in the safety and comfort of another’s arms? Can it be discovered in the certain knowledge that life can be an uneasy series of challenges?

These questions all weigh on the mind of singer- songwriter Shawn Nelson. Such queries aren’t unique; many search for the same answers and many more will follow suit in the future. Not all will set a pen to paper, but all can understand the struggles Nelson discusses on his third solo recording Ain’t No Easy Way. His expressions of faith lost and found in the face of disappointment, temptation, and redemption offer a voice to those who silently wonder whether they can rise above the world crumbling around them.

As a songwriter, Nelson operates under one basic rule: Keep it simple. Hyperbole has obviously never made his acquaintance, and that’s perfectly fine with him. While the Austin, Texas resident’s compositions do not contain flowery language, he is more than capable of capturing beauty and despair. A host of fine musicians lend their talents to Ain’t No Easy Way including past and present members of Nelson’s own band the Ramblers (Joe Faulhaber, who also provides the record’s only-cowrite on “Jesus & The Honky-Tonk Queen”, Nick Chambers, and PJ Herrington) as well as Kris Brown, Trisha Keefer, Jerome Kinkaid, and LZ Love. Additionally, Nelson’s well-worn, salt- of-the-earth voice elevates him from singer to storyteller, infusing the narratives on the record with a kind of ragged grace under fire.

In a song that seems ripped from today’s headlines, mournful opener “Ain’t It A Shame” follows the plight of a man who has done everything he’s always been told to do in order to survive, yet he is still unable to make ends meet. Nelson demonstrates the palpable frustration of a protagonist who is “chained to the grave/a slave to the game.”

The gospel- influenced rave-up “Don’t Let the Devil Drag You Down” responds directly to “Ain’t It A Shame,” warning against the dangers of becoming overburdened. Keefer’s blazing fiddle solo intensifies the joyous mood of the piece, and Love’s harmonies on the number provide an ethereal contrast to Nelson’s gravelly vocals.

While there’s plenty of talk about faith, Nelson is hardly pious, as is demonstrated in the toe-tapping hook-up tune “Don’t Wanna Be Your Baby” in which he relates with blunt enthusiasm “I don’t wanna be your baby/No I don’t even wanna be your friend.” Lest the potential, somewhat drunken conquest get the wrong idea, he unapologeticall y admits “We only got tonight/But I gotta be at work by nine.” Exuberant picking and Nelson’s wry delivery carry what would otherwise be construed as a crude conversation.

Elsewhere, in the more melancholy “Jesus & the Honky-Tonk Queen” Nelson offers futile resistance to a temptress in the red dress traipsing around the local watering hole: “I thought I was sittin’ on Jesus’ knee/But it was just a warm barstool and a honky-tonk queen.”

Slow burner “You Are There” and the bluesy “Do Me Fine” are decidedly more romantic numbers, where Nelson seeks solace in the healing love of a woman.

Rounding out the record is “Streets of Gold,” which espouses the hopes of people who are “proud and poor” yet “tired of tryin’ and cryin’ for crumbs/and fighting for nothin’ but war.” In some ways, the protagonist of “Ain’t It A Shame” has come full circle, arriving at a place where he can dare to dream of something better for himself and his loved ones. While Nelson proclaims that “there ain’t no easy way” in life, neither are there any easy answers to the questions he asks throughout his record. Ultimately, he seems to arrive at the conclusion that the answers aren’t as important as the act of finding the courage to recognize the world for what it is and fight against what it isn’t.

Tyler Morning Telegraph

June 8, 2007

Appearing In East Texas: Shawn Nelson And Ramblers Play At Stanley’s
By LAUREN KEATON
Staff Writer

After playing in the Rose City “five or six times” before, Shawn Nelson and The Ramblers “can’t wait to come back.”

Well, lucky for East Texans the country rock group will be performing along with Tyler band Whiskey Myers at Stanley’s Famous Pit Bar-B-Q on Friday, June 15.

Whiskey Myers members John Jeffers, Cody Tate, Gary Brown, Jeff Hogg and Cody Cannon will tune up at 8:30 p.m.

Shawn Nelson and The Ramblers are set to take the stage at 10 p.m.

Tickets are $10 at the door.

For more information visit www.stanleyspitbbq.com.

Nelson has been involved in music from a young age, but picked up a guitar for the first time during his senior year at The University of Texas at Austin.

After playing for about six months, he stumbled onto a weekly gig at a local Austin joint called “The Back Forty” and fell in love with the industry, he said.

”(The owner) gave me Tuesdays and Thursdays and that is how I started playing,” said Nelson.

Nelson moved to Nashville shortly after graduating from college and began working for a music publishing company … but missed being an artist in the music scene.

“I really wanted to play in Texas,” said Nelson.

Now, back in the Lone Star State about 10 years later he is following his dream, teaming up with The Ramblers, a group consisting of members Joe Faulhaber, Nick Chambers and P.J. Herrington.

Traveling just across town for the show, some East Texas boys will be warming up the stage for Nelson and his group.

“This is the first time Whiskey Myers has ever played in Tyler, but they have already developed a following,’’ said lead singer Cannon.

“We threw a lot of parties,” he said, adding that is where he and the rest of the band would causally play, getting noticed by friends and fellow partygoers.

When they started performing their original music at venues in places such as Gun Barrel City, a lot of people would show up from their home area. So the boys expect a nice turn out to this weekends’ show.

“We are totally different, we put on a good show,” said Cannon.

For more information on Shawn Nelson and The Ramblers visit www.shawnnelsonmusic.com., and for more information on Whiskey Myers visit www.myspace.com/whiskeymyers.

KUT 90.5 FM: Austin Music Minute

Listen to the Austin Music Minute featuring Shawn at KUT Austin Music Minute: Shawn Nelson

“Shawn Nelson & the Ramblers are playing Thursday night at a new Italian restaurant slash live music venue next to the Continental Club. Shawn is a singer/songwriter who mixes country, blues and rock – just perfect for an evening out on S. Congress.”

— Teresa Ferguson, Austin Music Minute: May 21, 2007 | KUT.org|

Tulsaworld.com

DFest Best Bet

If you’re ready to knock a couple of beers back, then head to Mercury Lounge for the country-rock, honky tonk act Shawn Nelson & the Ramblers. You’ll no doubt raise a longneck bottle to this rowdy act from Austin.

Matt Gleason | Tulsaworld.com | Tulsa OK

The Daily Texan - Review

Life & Arts | 4/25/06
Sound Bites

The temperature is rising, summer is on its way to Austin and Shawn Nelson and the Ramblers’ latest album will be a perfect soundtrack for the fun of the season.

In Live at Antone’s, Nelson sings renditions of his best songs recorded live on June 24, 2005, at Antone’s, a classic Austin venue. Live keeps audiences entertained with the styles that the band incorporates into its sound – anything from the traditional gospel of “Down By the Riverside” to the down-home, bluesy feel of “Troubadour.” The music exudes the optimistic, laid-back nature of Nelson. In “Walkin’ Down the Line,” a cover of Bob Dylan’s original song, Nelson encourages audiences to forget their troubles as he croons, “Been walkin’ down the line / feelin’ just fine.” In “The Junkies,” Nelson makes a clever analogy, equating falling in love to being a junkie, singing, “She’s got me running with the junkies / searching for something / too far gone to come back down.” Even while talking about love, it seems Nelson waxes optimistic.

Lyrics such as these promise comfort and relaxation despite the dreaded summer heat. The music of Shawn Nelson and the Ramblers is sure to appear at backyard barbecues, beer joints and Barton Springs, as Austinites enjoy themselves touring the summer.

Emily Watson | The Daily Texan

Austin Daze - Review

February 2006

Austin Daze
Maria Mesa’s Record Reviews

“When I was very young, my Mom used to take me to the Armadillo. Yeah, THAT Armadillo. I don’t remember a whole lot, but the music in general was a lot like this. It was this funky mishmash of country, blues, rock and gospel. It was feel-good music played by people who felt good playing it, and everyone felt good hearing it. The years went by and that’s the sound Austin became known for. It’s country that doesn’t fit the Nashville plan, and it’s the tradition Austin City Limits has tried to maintain. I guess it’s “Americana” or “Roots music,” but whatever you want to call it, it definitely is Austin. The important thing is that it draws from all kinds of influences both black and white, and draws everyone together. It’s as hippie friendly as it is cowboy friendly, and the kids and grandparents will be there too.

This music just says come on in, grab a cold one, the BBQ’s over there. You can dance or sit down and tap your toes, we don’t care- just glad you’re here. That’s the feel I think Shawn Nelson and the Ramblers are trying to create here. Listening to this CD, I can imagine them in just about any honky tonk where the beer is cold and everyone’s glad to be off work.

Shawn Nelson was born in Houston, and lived in Austin while attending UT. Afterwards he moved to Nashville to work for a music publishing company, but decided to move back to Austin to pursue his own career. After a few other projects, he teamed up with the Ramblers and became the chief songwriter and front man. Aside from strumming the acoustic guitar, Shawn adds mandolin for a bluegrass feel.

Lead guitarist Joe Faulhaber is without a doubt a very good guitar player. His leads sizzle on just about every track here. Although I’d probably be into it 100% if I saw him in person, some of his solos come off a bit long winded for this recording- particularly on “The Difference.” Louis Landry adds plenty of soul with his R&B and gospel tinged Hammond B3 organ, and high backing vocals. Bassist Shaun Dickerson stands out to me as bass players go. Supplying smart walking blues basslines that accentuate the melody and make you want to move is his specialty. His tone is warm, well compressed and ever present in the mix. And anytime you have a drummer with a name like Mooke, you know it’s gonna be good, right?”

Maria Mesa | Music Reviewer | Austin Daze | Atown Records

Borderline Networks - Review

January 2006

“A one-night stand with Austin, Texas country-rockers, Shawn Nelson & the Ramblers. This album caught my attention, not only by the cover but by this band’s awesome true to the beat Texas sound! These guys kick ass with the rhythm sounds, and this album is for the kind of party people who like to just crank up the tunes, especially “Live From Antone’s”! Check this album out and hear for yourself.”

Bill Hanson | Music Editor | Borderline Networks

Edge Magazine

RAW TUNEAGE (12.2004)

I wonder if Shawn Nelson ever says to his band (the Ramblers), George Clooney’s infamous line in From Dusk Till Dawn when he took the preacher and his kids hostage and hijacked their RV with a cavalier, ”Okay, ramblers,
let’s get to rambling.” I’m such a dork that I still say that line. At SXSW ’96, I even overheard Billy Gibbons use it as he strolled out of Spin Magazine’s after- hours party — surrounded by a couple of young hotties. Nelson & the Ramblers just finished their debut self-titled CD and I think it’s purty darn good singer-songwriter roots rawk in the vien of Little Feat and fellow Texas hill country sage Todd Snider. Nothing new about being kinda country,kinda folky and kinda bluesy, but the addition of Louis Landry’s talents on the
keyboards can instantly change a song’s mood and tempo from swampy county to 70’s classic cock rock to lush trippy dippy aural landscapes. Landry also just released his second solo album
Leaving & Returning. Nelson and his Ramblers are currently rambling at Trophy’s playing First Thursdays….

Wonderjam Review

August 21, 2005

WonderJam in Austin (WJAT), the first of many to come, was a great success for all involved. First and most importantly, WJAT raised funds and awareness for a wonderful non-profit, Instruments for Orphans (IFO), and say they are proud of the musicians and sponsors that made this all possible. A huge thanks goes out to Gibson for setting up the gear for the event and bringing Slingerland drums into the mix. Gibson is a big help for IFO and made the evening easy on the musicians and soundman, Pat Guillory…who had enough to handle with so many bands and arrangements. Pat did a spectacular job mixing the bands and making sure the changes were brief; he has a history of multiple band events and an uncanny ability to run the show without offending anyone, and that is no small task. And speaking of the show…only at the legendary Threadgill’s South could such an auspicious showcase take place, being part of the Armadillo World Headquarter’s 35th Anniversary was an honor bestowed upon this Texas Music Showcase. Threadgills treated the musicians and volunteers as family with very tasty food for all. There did seem to be a lot of smiles on everyone’s faces.

The musical line-up overflowed with Austin talent from kid’s music to heavy dub, from airy jam bands to butt stomping rock, from howling vocalists to sound-scaping instrumental madness, the styles were as varied as the supportive crowd. This was a night of serious fun. IFO expressed great thanks for these bands uniting to donate their musical performances this evening. The bands did not disappoint their audience either, many of who have volunteered in various ways for IFO is the past year. Austin Volunteer Orchestra: AVO “Kid’s Music” started off the showcase with DBrown Fisher playing acoustic guitar and entertaining kid’s of all ages with playful lyrics and friendly musical styling.

Shawn Nelson & the Ramblers took the stage next with their Fonky Tonk style of lyrical shuffles and groovy instrumentals. Just enough funk to swing that whiskey bar blues feel into a great rock and roll band. Grimy Style took the stage next and never let the audience recover. They set-up live dub grooves and instrumental mix-downs that kept the fans riding on waves of reggae and world beat rhythms. This new band to the Austin scene turned heads, around and around, as the people danced and brought the sun down for the stage lights to shine on their final song. A tough one to follow, but the power trio, Moving Matter was just the band to come up next. These guys are tight, hard driving, and very tasteful in their tones and melodic madness. Heavy drum beats out to a solid bass that opens the pocket for a screaming guitarist to take this band and it’s fans on a roller coaster of rock and roll jams. A great show in its own, but this is just the set-up for the headlining acts to follow: Wayne Sutton & Matt Hubbard and LARRY.

Wayne Sutton traveled the nation for over a decade as a major label artist with the band, Sister 7, and now performs his own songs. Matt Hubbard has a track record to long to list involving performing, engineering, producing and more for such greats as Willie Nelson and Ray Price. These two talents teamed up with drummer Kevin Pierson to create a trio of heavies. Performing songs by Sutton and Hubbard, this band made a rare debut. From those howling vocals of Sutton to that butt stomping, literally on his keyboard, of Hubbard, the set was raging fun and great music. The night was wide open at this point and only the legendary jam band, LARRY, would have such a great time taking WonderJam in Austin to the end. Big changes have occurred with the bands performers, and the edge is sharp with the new grouping. Original members Rick and Jeff still hold up the front and bring the audience into the moment like no others. Nick on drums is a great addition with Bobby Perkins sitting in on bass again. The night was a huge success musically and more. The sound was great thanks to Pat Guillory and the showcase was managed smoothly.

WonderJam in Austin’s benefit for Instruments for Orphans was a great time and success for those involved, and we are looking forward to see when this event will happen again…and there are rumors about going away parties planned for Austin and Houston in November for the 3rd annual WonderJam in Amsterdam this November 14 – 20, 2005. Come on over and join the party this November…check these websites for more informa

The Delta Statement

09.16.2005

Texas band brings country-rock to Cleveland hot spot

By Marshall Drew

Shawn Nelson and the Ramblers, a jam-infused country-rock band from Austin, Texas, will make their Mississippi debut at Cleveland’s Bar Code Saturday.

The group, led by singer-songwriter Shawn Nelson, formed in 2004 and has been playing shows across the Southwest to overwhelming approval. Their self-titled debut CD has also received impressive reviews.

The Bulletin, published in Conroe, Texas, hailed the album as an, “original, yet familiar sound that captivates its listeners with well-crafted songs, high harmonies and groove laden melodies.”

Despite this success, an upcoming show at Bar Code will mark the band’s first venture into the Southeast.

“This show will be our first time in Cleveland and in Mississippi,” said Nelson. “We have been all around Texas and some in New Mexico and Colorado, but never through the Southeast.”

Nelson explained that he is never sure what fans will react to at their shows. The front man, who said the band plays “mostly originals and some covers,” is not quick to make any predictions.

“It’s hard to know what to expect in any situation that is new,” he said. “But we plan on throwing down and pouring our hearts and souls into the show. We like to have a good time.”

Nelson, who cites inspirations as diverse as The Rolling Stones and Bob Marley, is equally hesitant to categorize his group’s eclectic sound.

“I wouldn’t call it country, I wouldn’t call it rock and I wouldn’t call it jam – it’s somewhere in between, maybe like a country jam,” Nelson said. “Just imagine hanging out in a honky-tonk with the Grateful Dead, Little Feat, or the Allmans blasting out of the jukebox.”

Nelson said he hopes “the good folks out in Cleveland” will come to the show and enjoy themselves.

“We have been looking forward to this show for months,” he said. “If you like real music and a good time, come on down to the Bar Code and get some.”

The Electric Mudd will be featured at Bar Code September 22 and southern rockers Daybreakdown are slated for October 6.

“I’ve been talking to a lot of rock and country bands that we’re interested in having,” said owner John Nassar. “There’s a lot more music in the works.”

The Delta Statement Website