Danny Burns preview
Danny Burns’ Defectors
Martyrs’, Chicago
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Hailing from County Donegal in Ireland, this Chicago-based singer-songwriter, on first listen, sounds like the next coming of longtime local staple, South Sider Michael McDermott. On Danny Burns’ Defectors debut, Grace & Mercy (TL), the 26-year-old does, indeed, channel a young McDermott, but shades of fellow Irishman Damien Dempsey color the singer’s folksy material, especially on opening track, “Sweet Poetry.” His phrasing alone makes comparisons with rugged troubadour Dempsey inevitable.
But, the Irishness halts quickly after the first track ends and an alternate Bruce Springsteen personality takes its place for the remainder of the album. “Hell’s Fire” hails straight outta The Boss’ Nebraska period, minus the sparse instrumentation and home-recording technology, but still retains the desolate, downtrodden vibe. Springsteen does Springsteen better than the imitators, so Burns’ reliance on the legendary star’s style soon grates. Not to say tracks “Golden” or “Children Of The Revolution” are without merit, but why not just spin *The River* instead?
In a surprise twist, the album’s closer, “Missing You,” with its fluttery piano and warm sentiment, is reminiscent of Marc “Walking In Memphis” Cohn. The results are a welcome change. Mournfully sweet and soothing, this dirge hopefully grabs the attention of those impatient with Grace & Mercy‘s middle section.
— Janine Schaults
Click here to stream “Children Of The Revolution.”
Category: Stage Buzz, Weekly
Janine,
I have been to Ireland many time, and hear lots of musicians. Daniel Burns sounds nothing like those you mention. I listen to them others on mySpace, and yes they sound like Bob Dylan clones (McDermot very much).
I think you not listened to tracks enough.
Or think all Irish people sound alike.
Harsh and unjust comment.
Jochen, auf Mannheim.
Janine Janine Janine!
I heard Daniel play in København, and he knows how to rock. “Hell’s Fire” has more balls and bravado than anything I’ve heard in a very long time.
And the track “Trouble” is the best of Zeppelin meets the best of Dire Straits. The synth and vocals are epic.
Haven’t heard of the other singers you mention, and I never liked Springstein, too much of a middle-road poster boy.
Think you need to give the album a second listen, or
“Oh Hell’s Fires gonna burn you somehow…”
Daniel, keep on rocking those heavy tracks out, and it Burns Burns Burns!
strålende!!!
G.
Ive been too a couple of Danny’s shows as well as the Boss and Damo Dempsey and I have to say they are all VERY different artist, from songwriting style’s to vocal aproach and range, this review just seems unfair and inacturate- Just because Danny is singing with His rich own Northern irish accent its more Like Van Morrison or Paul Brady then Damo-Damo’s from the northside of Dublin and the boss from New Jersey so I cant hear the comparison’s but it’s to be expected if your not going to give it a chance, Also the Record “Grace & Mercy”(great record btw! just got my cope today!!) Is a strong and soulful well produced rooted musical journey, And its not for everyone -Its seperates the boys from the girls shall we say!! Rock on Danny Boy!! – All the Live Show’s Ive seen Danny do around town have been superb and truly his own. Danny Burns is The real deal and catch him in the smaller venue’s while you can!!
“Grace & Mercy” the record from Danny Burns from the northwest of Ireland is a Gem!! Its reminds me off what real music should sound like! If your a fan of the Joe Strummer and Mescaleros or Mcgowan and the Pogues or Jam band fans or any music fans at all you’ll love this record and if you dont love it there’s something wrong wit you- great melodies,killer voice,groovin vibes the feel is in the pocket!!
southside Frank
Danny Burns has a bright future ahead of him – very mature sound for a man of his years. Nice easy listening tracks – recently purchased his album and I’ll be spreading the word.
Fair play Danny Boy – keep her lit!
I think Danny has his own unquie sound and way about him- I believe this artist has alot to offer in the near future as a performing songwriter.
Sheila,
Nashville Tn,
Love the tunes and the sound…..that keyboard is something else.Keep it rockin!