Buffalo born, Austin based multi-instrumentalist and producer Gurf Morlix is known for playing with Lucinda Williams and producing outlaw country artists like Ray Wylie Hubbard and Robert Earl Keen not to mention Romi Mayes, Ray Bonneville and Mary Gauthier, but he also shines as a solo musician on his most recent CD “Last Exit to Happyland.” Much of his cd’s appeal is his lyrics, which are consistently real, earnest, down to earth and honest, not to mention melodic.

The first track ‘One More Second’ features some of his trademark sedate and tasteful slide guitar and a really catchy Hammond organ hook which carries through to the next track ‘Walkin’ to New Orleans.  

Another artist Morlix works with, Patti Griffin, guests on a couple laid back duets including ‘She’s A River,‘ and  ‘I Got Nothin.’’

‘She’s a River ’ also has a pretty wave of organ playing in the background, which is an addictive presence throughout the CD.

Morlix’s guitar playing and voice are reminiscent of Toronto session ace and super-producer Colin Linden. His vocals are a combination of Todd Snider, Jay Farrar and Dave McCann (for all of you local readers) Ruthie Foster provides some haunting vocals on the spooky song “Drums From New Orleans.’

‘Music You Mighta Made’ features some pretty finger picking, that tasteful slide in the background and a lilting melody as well as  Barbara Kooyman (from Timbuk 3) singing along.

This is a laid back CD that really grows on you.

So take a listen, it will make you happy.

CD: Last Exit to Happyland
Artist: Gurf Morlix
Genre: Country/ rock/ blues

Record label :indie

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