(2006) | CD
Planting Seeds Records

Musician, Producer, Engineer, and Mastering for Jeff Mellin’s version of Garden Party 

From the Publisher

It has been a little over 20 years since rock/country rock pioneer Rick Nelson died in a tragic plane crash. We are now proud to present "Easy To Be Free: The Songs Of Rick Nelson". This is a 20 track collection that gathers a potpourri of artists from around the globe, celebrating Nelson’s legacy with a special spotlight on some of his finest self-penned introspective songs. In a 28 year history of recording music, Rick Nelson went from rockabilly artist to golden age of LA country rock super star and originator, singer songwriter and then a rejuvenated return to rockabilly.

No matter what his standing on the music charts, first and foremost Nelson was a musician. The artists herein embark on reverent interpretations of Rick Nelson originals. New York City singer/songwriter Linda Draper contributes an enchanting angelic lullaby-like reading of “How Long", while Astropop 3 delights with a bouncy cadenced rendition of “Life”. Michael Barrett (of Merge Records’ Ladybug Transistor and The Essex Green) shines brightly on his enlivening Dobrodriven take of “Nighttime Lady". One of Rick’s biggest hits - “Travelin’ Man” sparkles perfectly with Norfolk, VA’s 1888 – a dreamy take complete with slinky James Burton inspired guitar break.

Even independent artists of today such as Allen Clapp (The Orange Peels), Liz Durrett (Vic Chesnutt), Aaron Booth (Endearing Records), Nic Dalton & The Gloomchasers (The Lemonheads), Dolorean (Yep Roc Records), and California singer/songwriter Jeff Larson showcase their Rick Nelson influence. The Primary 5 featuring Paul Quinn of Teenage Fanclub, kicks things off with “One x One”, a sweet guitar pop-driven joy. “Poor Little Fool” couldn’t have been performed by a more fitting New York (by way of California) group, The Voyces. Their upbeat take adds a dash of color and flair to an already classic pop song. Jeff Mellin tranforms one of the most infamous Nelson songs “Garden Party” into a pleasing Lovin’ Spoonful-esque arrangement, creating a swinging sense of 60’s fun. Oed Ronne, of Hershey PA’s finest The Ocean Blue, takes Burt Bacharach and Hal David’s “Take Broken Heart” and makes it all his own –girls find a dancing partner! The title track, “Easy To Be Free”, swirls and flows in an enthralling and captivating sound performed by The Autumn Leaves.

In addition to the amazing array of independent artists, some of his former band members and friends celebrate the legacy of Rick Nelson. Denny Sarokin, guitarist from Rick’s Stone Canyon Band displays the purest sense of what was intended from this metrical country pop rock gem, “One Night Stand”. Guitarist, John Beland, performs a jangly classic rendition of “Young World.” Marshall Crenshaw sweetly strums one of Rick Nelson’s first recorded compositions and brings “Don’t Leave Me This Way” to life. Former Beach Boy and current Brian Wilson guitarist, Jeffrey Foskett soars with a harmonic mixed cocktail blend of “Young Emotions”. Nitty Gritty Dirt Band founding member John McEuen with Jim Ratts and Runaway Express electrifies with the rousing banjo fueled rock n’ roll “Believe What You Say”.

Rick Nelson was a shy, humble man, with a reputation for honesty and integrity; which was reflected in the songs he wrote and sang. Having his music interpreted by friends, ex-band members and new Independent artists would have made him proud and made him laugh with embarrassment. He would have been pleased to know his music stood the test of time and that today’s musicians have found and appreciated his songs. All Rick Nelson ever wanted, was to feel respected by other musicians. Rick, with “Easy To Be Free: The songs of Rick Nelson”, you have finally received what you so rightfully deserve.

 © 2006 Planting Seeds Records