No More Smoking! by Shasta

The bard plunges us deep into a tapestry of Americana, with his newest CD: "No More Smoking!" The title cut, "No More Smoking!" (poking good natured fun at smoking bans) was featured on a smokers rights website. He calls his music, "Bard Rock", a blend of folk rock, country blues, rock & roll!

Originally from Connecticut, Shasta wrote poetry while growing up in New England and by his teens when he first heard Bob Dylan he was convinced to turn his poetic efforts into songwriting. He moved to California and on that journey wrote, “Chasin’ My Ghost”. Upon his return during what he refers to as “ emotional weather ” he wrote the epic, “Cold New England Rain”.

Shasta has received both "Golden & Silver Poet Awards" from the World of Poetry for his lyrics. Other artists that have inspired him include: Mark Knophler, Jewel, Maria McKee, Neil Young, Warren Zevon, Arlo Guthrie, and The Clash.

Shasta can be heard strumming guitar and occasionally blasting his harmonica on his albums, but his main strength is in his lyrics. The songs are rich blends of Americana, full of wit and passion. “There’s something for almost everyone here”, he says, “philosophy, politics, mystery, and lonesome love ballads”. His songs are mainly self-produced, and Shasta had some talented backup. He has an uncanny knack for assembling musicians that fit into his style and add the finishing touch, turning his lyrics into thought provoking songs that keep you listening.

In an Option Magazine review, writer Steve Hecox said:"Shasta is clearly a poet with an overriding sense of social awareness." ". . . excellent songs, .. Hot, tight, inventive and totally professional."

Paul van Kuik of Country Express Radio 0 16 2 - Dongen, Netherlands says: “The album stands like a mountain!!!” “...your lyrics remind me of Dylan: rough and clear. Just keep on doing what you're doing. Waiting for more!” Tony Bates of Highlands 100.7 FM in Australia says,“...rootsy sound that simply oozes social conscience. Take it or leave it, but you won't forget it as this is an album that epitomises modern living!”

Keen observations of this Bard Rock Poet that gives him a style of his own. A style that combines his musical influences with an unnerving need to tell the world how he feels about certain people and issues. In his own words:"As the vidiot screens control our dreams - marines die upon foreign shores - and I swear I saw phantoms dressed in black at America’s back door. - Oh, say why can’t you see?”

Since the 90's, Shasta has been strong on the music scene. He has received air play in the United States, Canada, Australia and Europe. He has traveled through 44 states playing solo open mikes and jam sessions in cafes, clubs, fairs and benefits. At a West Coast Bob Dylan Imitation Contest Shasta won First Place in 1990 and again in 1993. He took second place in New York City in 1991.

Discography:

1 New CD – "No More Smoking!"

1 Album, "Modern Fixations" originally on vinyl, now

remastered on CD with 5 songs added!

1 Album CD –"Stronger than the Storm"

1 45 rpm on vinyl - "Little Fugitive"

All songs copyright Mountain Thunder Music (BMI)

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