I’ve been meaning to post about Ray LaMontagne for the past year and I keep forgetting to. So here it is, my Ray LaMontagne post.
LaMontagne is an American singer-songwriter. His 2004 debut album, Trouble, is still on almost constant rotation in my house, either by me or my husband. It’s rare for either of us to play an actual album as opposed to an mp3 playlist, so that should tell you how much we love his cd.
It’s one of those albums that is best played as a whole and given your full attention. Ray’s music, vocals, and lyrics contain a depth and richness that is sadly lacking in most modern music.
Trouble was produced by Ethan Johns, the man behind acts like Ryan Adams, The Jayhawks, and Kings of Leon. Ray’s sound is similiar to those artists, though I think his songwriting and voice could kick Ryan Adams’ arse any day. ;p
There aren’t many male vocals that I would describe as “soaring”, but Ray’s voice is one of them. While the verses in many of his songs are sung in throaty blues tone, he can sure belt out a chorus.
The title track from the album is a good example of his vocal range, and my favourite song from the album. “Narrow Escape” is my second favourite, an old-fashioned outlaw on the run ballad that could easily have been written by Willie Nelson or Johnny Cash.
Most of Ray’s vocals and guitar playing on Trouble were recorded live, with Johns’ drums, bass, electric guitar, and piano added later. Sarah Watkins of Nickel Creek and Jennifer Sills also play on the album.
Official Site (has 3 live mp3s)