Songs from the American Plain by Tom Atwood

You have captured the great complexity of a deceptively 'plain' thing. Through it all, the ups and downs, the aggression and peace, in the end I am left with a full and warmed heart. Your songs always show such wisdom."

-- Peter Greenstone, Austin

"Whenever I listen to your music, I always find myself abandoning whatever I was at and just falling into the world of your songs. Then I press repeat and do it all over again."

-- Lisa Purdy, Seattle

"Your singing is always so beautiful, and your harmonies are always so well-wrought; mixed with real plain-speaking lyrics...you have so much ability, but you never let that overshadow the meaning of a piece of music."

-- William Shaw, London

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Liner notes from "Songs from the American Plain" CD:

"One year ago, if you had told me I would release a CD in 2005, I never would have believed it. But on New Year’s Eve 2004 I joined an online music community, www.macjams.com, and began posting original songs. I also began composing and recording music using GarageBand, computer software that makes high quality home studios possible. During the past year I have posted more than 50 songs. Some of them are included on this CD.

"'American Plain,' the orchestral suite written over a period of four months, was inspired by the broad, almost endless landscape of the Midwest. I also chose that title because I believe the symphony (and the rest of the music on this CD) is very plain. In fact, its composer is, too. As “American plain” as they come. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing?

"I would like to thank several people who helped me produce this CD. Mystified, who urged me to write 'American Plain;' Al Ligammari, who lent his technical and musical expertise; and Sally, Riley and Ellen, who always knew where they could find me this year: in the basement, on the computer, making music."

-- Tom Atwood, December 2005

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What others are saying about "The Man Born Blind:"

"Glorius! It's so absurdly joyful, and has that really visceral, unrestrained, strange gospel wildness to it. It build and builds and builds. I was smiling like an idiot by the time it finished."

-- William Shaw, London

What others are saying about "Exurban Prayer:"

"A simple, sad marvel. More about this world than heaven; more about sadness and disappointment than hope or expectation. So well performed, so simply and truly stated. Marvelous. Another jewel from you, Tom."

-- Tobin Mueller, Rowayton, CT

"Immediately upon hearing the first few notes I was transported back to my childhood, laying on the couch and opening my ears to my parents' record collection... specifically The Kingston Trio. Great lyrics, performance, heart, sentiment. This is going on my favorites. Beautiful."

-- Steve Hale, Portland

About "In Between:"

"Have to say, I got shivery and a little choked up listening to this. This one got me from all directions. The melody, as well as the lyrics, are extremely strong."

-- Eric Stun Nutz

"Your song hit me like a ton of bricks. Since I am employed in the media, this song is especially poignant. More and more, it is a struggle to keep listening to what's happening in the world at the pace in which is expected. I identify so strongly with this song, Tom. Awesome vocal and songwriting. The guitar is superb."

-- Tom Schmitt, Syracuse

"Another powerful commentary on society today, and it was achieved by simple means, which you seem to do so well."

-- Daphne Kalfon, Toronto

About "Revolving Door:"

"This music with repetitive variations reminds me of the

contemporary works of John Adams, Steven Reich and

Philip Glass...very soothing and stimulating at the same time.

-- Cameron Kopf, Brisbee, AZ

Average Customer Review: