Cerro Gordo by Rich McCulley

Following on the success of his third record Far From My Angel (2005), McCulley has become a fixture in the LA roots scene, where he has developed productive co-writing partnerships, placed songs in films, recorded dozens of bands in his studio, and played as a fiery guitar sideman in many pro projects.

It’s not surprising, therefore, that the list of co-writers and players on Cerro Gordo reads like a who’s who of McCulley’s favorite bands and musical inspirations. Co-writers include Duane Jarvis (Lucinda Williams, Dwight Yoakam) and Todd Herfindal of The Meadows, while featuring members of bands such as Fountains of Wayne, The Posies, Lucinda Williams, Dwight Yoakam, Frank Black, Dave Alvin, and others.

Highlights of the record include the lush and lovely “If I Hesitate,” a song of new love, and “I Never Really Loved You,” a tongue in cheek duet with singer/violinist Amy Farris (Dave Alvin, Kelly Willis). There is also an ode to the beauty and reinventive spirit of McCulley’s native California (“Forever California”).

McCulley's sound features his distinctive chopped gravel vocal rasp - hailed by IndieMusic.com as "a great rock and roll voice" - as well as powerful rock guitar chops that shift effortlessly from full-on rock to laid-back California cool. McCulley's style remains sunny and honest and always throws a hook.

McCulley's story began in his hometown of Fresno, CA, where he wrote, recorded and toured with a variety of county rock and pop rock bands on labels such as Geffen and Columbia. With the release of his first solo EP in 2000, McCulley set off on his own path, guiding his band through two more critically acclaimed records and staging several tours across the southern US and West coast.

Now, celebrating the release of Cerro Gordo, McCulley remains optimistic about the future. “I’ve learned not to be so attached to things and outcomes, and instead to just enjoy the experience. At the end of the day, being able to survive and make a living in music, play with my friends, and find new inspiration, that’s what drives me forward.”

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