The Watch Man by Arlon Bennett

But his New York accent disappeared by the time he returned to the area following stints upstate and in the Midwest.

Arlon was a Long Island teenager when he fell in love with the classic singer/songwriters of the 1970s — and his early folk-rock influences include Harry Chapin, James Taylor, Cat Stevens, Jim Croce, Neil Young, and Don McLean. Arlon connects with the troubadour who has something to say without preaching, and he admires the artists who realize great storytelling is great storytelling, whether it’s Dylan, Springsteen or Cash. Arlon even pays tribute to Johnny Cash on Summer’s Voice with a smooth interpretation of “Straight A’s in Love.”

Arlon’s visibility in the folk Americana scene has been growing steady and strong. While accumulating songwriting awards throughout North America, he has opened for such acts as Glenn Tilbrook (Squeeze), Chris Stamey (dB's), Michael Smith and Steve Seskin, and has sung with Livingston Taylor. Arlon won the Rosegarden Song Competition in 2005, placed second at the Great Waters Folk Festival in 2004, and has been a finalist at the Kerrville Folk Festival and many others. Arlon also was twice selected by Noel ‘Paul’ Stookey to perform in his Music-to-Life showcase at Kerrville – first with “I Am the War” (from his sophomore CD, The Watch Man), and more recently, with “Be the Change” (from Summer’s Voice). Aside from winning awards in the Billboard, Mid-Atlantic and Unisong contests, Arlon is equally proud that his lyrics to “The Ace in Grace” (from his 1999 debut, Fountain of Dreams) were used in the official statue dedication of late tennis champion Arthur Ashe in his hometown of Richmond, Virginia.

Arlon’s music reached a bigger playing field more recently, when the New York Mets chose the title track of Summer’s Voice to be featured in a tribute video to Hall of Fame sportscaster Bob Murphy before a packed house at Shea Stadium.

There’s always something meaningful in Arlon’s songs because he recognizes the power of music to reach people. He gives his skills and talents to organizations like Hospice and “Wednesday’s Child” (NBC/Philadelphia), and participates in fundraising efforts for numerous causes.

Arlon is never afraid to experiment and push his boundaries. His inherent need to constantly evolve is unmistakable on Summer’s Voice. And his music always comes from the heart.

“It’s the most rewarding way to communicate,” says Arlon. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Quotes:

“Every decade or so, a voice appears on the folk music scene that makes you sit up and take notice. When that voice is paired with songs and lyrics that tell a story or sing of the human spirit, it is truly magical. That voice is Arlon Bennett, and his CD “The Watch Man” leaves you

wanting more of this great talent. Listen to it. Listen again and again...”

- Jane Falvey, WRIU Kingston, 90.3FM

“Arlon has a gift for wrapping quiet introspection and pathos within melodies that you’ll quickly find familiar..”

- Sing Out! Magazine

“Spiritual in tone, the music matches Arlon’s acoustical brilliance with personal tales of woe and eventual triumph...”

- The ROOM Magazine

“..Arlon Bennett presents his stories in song using a variety of unique and compelling "camera angles". He is a singer/songwriter who brings you stories from unique perspectives, and draws you right in. His guitar work is masterful and blends so well with the spirituality of his music.”

- Singer Magazine April 2003

“Arlon, Going round one more time!”

- Livingston Taylor

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