Asheville, NC (March 13, 2012)– Sam Lewis releases his self-titled debut TODAY. In it, he pulls together some of Nashville’s most seasoned musicians, who have helped put the breath into a body of songs that are as straight-forward and captivating as the man who sings them.
Five years of constant writing, performing and touring have become the nexus of Lewis’ self-titled debut. Along with co-producer Matt Urmy, Sam has woven ten songs into a conversation, between himself, the band, and his listeners. Urmy, himself an accomplished singer/songwriter, assembled a group made up of Nashville’s top session and touring players, including guitarist Kenny Vaughan, keyboard player Reggie Bradley Smith, Derek Mixon on drums and bass player Dave Jacques. Making a surprise appearance on the album is soul chanteuse Jonell Mosser, providing backing vocals on “I’m A River”.
Praise for Sam Lewis:
“There’s so much soul pouring out of this guy’s pores you could bathe in it. It’s like hearing Al Green for the first time.” –Grant Britt, No Depression
“It shows on Lewis’ new self-titled album that he learned from the sources, rather than a copy of a copy; he’s deeply committed to both soul and country streams, and the combination fits him like a second skin.” –Jewly Hight, Nashville Scene
“Lewis takes simplicity from Willie Nelson, poetry from Bob Dylan, soul from Ray Charles, stage presence from Leon Russell, rich delivery from Van Morrison and combines them to create one authentic, solid message.” –Sarah Garrett, Fishbowl Records
“Sounding a bit like James Taylor, but bluesier and more country, Sam Lewis shares 10 songs on his self titled debut CD. It’s a consistently good, cleanly produced listen, often about human flaws, weaknesses, and some of the facets of love.”–Tom Geddie, Buddy Magazine
“The complete artist is one that everyone should be reminded of from time to time – the one who writes, sings, performs and handles every aspect of the form of expression found in music. And this is where you find Sam Lewis, blending a mix of country and soul in a manner such as Van Morrison or Ray Charles. He has a story to tell that is relevant to all in the wake of his new self-titled album.” –Travis Swann, Mufreesboro Post
“The realness … instantaneously creates a link between Lewis and other famous singer/songwriters like Amos Lee, John Prine and Henry McCullough.” –Greenberry Taylor, Fishbowl Records
“This one stands up to repeated listening, cut after cut, time after time. It’s time to pay attention to Sam Lewis. He deserves it, and so do you.” –Grant Britt, No Depression
