As a writer I am always looking for music that will spark inspiration when I need it most. Recently a friend suggested I give Autumn Electric’s “Make Me a Tree” album and I have to admit I was impressed. The album is a collection of songs that obviously were written with aspiration of making their mark on the world of music. Released June 28, 2012, this album offers the listener a song writer who is as apt in vocals as he is guitar and flute. Lead vocalist Michael Trew leads a band of talented and determined musicians on the album including Naomi Smith who commands the piano, synths and melodia as she supports Trew with backup vocals. Percussion specialist Daniel Desrosiers sets the beat of the band along with lead guitarist Barton McGuire who also specializes in the saw, accordion and harmonica which lends to an undercurrent of folk sounds that can be heard in strains of the song “Spaghetti Western”. The group is rounded out by Johnny Unicorn who serves as producer, engineer and lead bass. Special guest Lauren Zeck added string arrangements on the album.
This album is a strong showing for this talent group of Washington artists. “Make Me a Tree” was introduced at a tour in early Feb 2013, where this talented band dedicated most of the proceeds from their shows to benefit Grief Recovery Centers. Shows benefited causes such as The Dougy Center in Portland, and the Sacred Heart Hospice in Eugene. Currently the band is working on their next album while continuing to promote their early work. Autumn Electric currently includes Michael Trew, Naomi Smith along with Max Stiener on Lead Guitar and Bass, and Chris Barrios on Drums.
