There’s no doubt I would’ve flourished in that College Radio scene in the 90’s had I been older, but being merely six years old when “Mr. Jones” owned the airwaves, I just sat back and appreciated it for what it was at the time; a soundtrack for Barbie’s prom. Years, many years later Dan Vickrey who handled lead guitar and backed up Adam Duritz on vocals has released his side project, Tender Mercies’ Tender Mercies.
You won’t find that mainstream alternative sound here. It lays more on the Folk side of life while staying “Safe & Sound.” Although not super mainstream, it has that VH1 appeal to it because of its Dylan-esque qualities in stand out tracks like “Heaven Knows.” The audience will indeed have an idea of where to find Tender Mercies if they go off of “Wiseblood.” All one can envision during that song it a man with only his guitar to call his friend as he strums amidst a crowd in a local pub. As this imaginary gig plays on in my head, the patrons find their selves emerged in “Riding Blind” as they sing along to the lyrics that speak to those feeling down and out.
This night comes to an end as I open my eyes and stare at a cubicle. I’m supposed to be working, but instead Tender Mercies have transported me to a Saturday night out. There’s no club and dubstep in this daydream, just an honest sound that falls in-between Folk and Country thanks to “Faded Memories” at the end.
Tender Mercies’ Tender Mercies is out now, so pick up or download (legally) and enjoy.
Originally published on Dec 18, 2011
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