Randy Casey
From Minnewiki
Page contents |
History
Minneapolis-based guitarist/singer/songwriter Randy Casey’s music is founded in roots Americana, blending folk, rock, country and blues that range from raw country nuggets to almost old-time gospel revival. Randy describes his newest release Late Bloomer (due out February 12, 2008) as something akin to "Andy Griffith jamming with the Stones."
"Honky-tonk flavored in a Wilco-meets-Exile-era-Stones style, Randy's music belongs in an ear-pleasing genre all its own. The intricate, heart-felt country-blues pickin' and genuine musical camaraderie embedded in this album makes it one of those rare 'white boy blues’ albums that actually WORKS — from the music to the mixing to the mind-blowing, unforgettable lyrics." (Tom Hallet/Reveille Magazine)
Late Bloomer is a surprising about-face from his last, all-instrumental release Say No More. "With Casey playing mandolin, harmonica, National steel, lap steel and other guitars, Say No More suggests a slide-happy, Southern-fried Leo Kottke gone ambient." (Jon Bream/Star Tribune).
"In a car, or, better yet, a Greyhound, Say No More does for passing scenery what Ry Cooder did for Paris, Texas." (Bill Snyder/No Depression)
Though he doesn’t mention it, he's got a good nip of George Harrison's distinct slide guitar stylings and John Lennon's acidic, straight-from-the-gut lyricism running through this catalog. Late Bloomer is the culmination of Randy's journey from small-town Minnesota kid to seasoned musician. Kevin Murphy — founding father of Rufus featuring Chaka Khan — described him as "the best all-around guitarist I've ever worked with."
Randy first picked up the guitar at 13 and began writing his own material shortly thereafter. Over the years he has contributed ubiquitously to fellow musicians' albums and tours and has produced commercial scores for readily identifiable clients like Levi's, Vidal Sassoon, Target Corporation and H&R Block.
Through a lifelong love for music of all styles, genres and eras, Randy has mastered more than the guitar. In fact, Randy played every instrument on "You're My Favorite." It's a rollicking foot-stomper that includes harmonica, slide guitar, bass, mandolin, drums and Randy's inimitable, instantly memorable vocal work, which sounds as natural and unforced as any hill-country picker's.
Albums
- Late Bloomer (2008)
- Say No More (2001)
- Randy Casey and the Cactus Thieves (1997)
- Mad at the World (1994)
