"Salt" nominated for Album of the Year - 2006 Independent Music Awards
WOODY RUSSELL hits the mark with his "Technicolor Americana"; where blues, soul, jazz and a touch of country mingle warmly on the scene. A highly-tuned and versatile voice, muscular guitar work and adventurous lyricism place Russell in a class of his own. The result is a brilliant CD garnering a 2006 IMA "Album of the Year" nomination that is "a proof point in support of his blossoming career."Touring throughout North America, Russell has been a featured artist at major festivals including Newport, Kerrville, Winterfolk and Sisters Folk Festivals. He has also showcased at NXNE and the Nashville New Music Conference, among others. Woody Russell was one of the Top 5 New Talent Finalists of 2004 at the prestigious Newport Folk Festival; the only finalist to receive a coveted invitation to perform at Newport in 2005 alongside a lineup that included Elvis Costello, Emmylou Harris and Richard Thompson. The Newport Daily News regarded Russell as an "audience favorite."
In writing and recording songs for his latest CD, "Salt", Woody continued to hone his trademark, sophisticated sound. As a modern troubadour with an ear for craftsmanship, his songs are distilled from a potent blend of diverse musical ingredients. He states that he tries "not to lean too hard on the obvious. Which for me," Russell continues, "means searching for a genuine voice in my work and not delivering more recycled, unimaginative grist for the mill." His songs catalogue a view of the human experience that is populated with the victorious and the forgotten, the lovers and the heartbroken. Yet, even his darkest songs are tinged with hope and gentle humor. He writes of a social consciousness. He explores the philosophical. Occasionally, he admits to being a helpless romantic and in choosing to up the musical ante, Woody Russell embraces the chance to create compelling, well penned magic. Woody Russell's songs are used for radio P.S.A.'s, public television programs, synchronization with product advertisements and educational multimedia projects. He is also sought out by other recording artists for his work as a producer. He is based in Austin, Texas.
