Diverse Records are thrilled to be bringing Chuck Prophet to Wales for the first time in about a billion years. His album ‘Let Freedom Ring’ is being released on vinyl by Diverse in May (hopefully in time for the gig, there’s been a couple of delays), it was described by New York’s Village Voice as “Born in the USA for our times.”. We thought it was only fair that we promoted this show too as he’s as thrilling on stage as he is on record. He’s an amazingly entertaining performer and with his band, The Mission Express, produces bluesy, country, Tom Petty-like music with balls. That’s right, balls.
Prophet first attracted attention in March 1983 on joining Los Angeles band Green On Red. His exciting, highly skilled, technique added a new dimension to this already excellent group, although critics initially dubbed his work derivative of Neil Young. Successive releases by the group established Prophet as one of the era’s finest musicians, whose skills were enhanced through jams with the cream of San Francisco’s rock fraternity. In 1990 the artist released Brother Aldo, a largely country rock selection. This superior set featured several vocal duets with Prophet’s partner Stephanie Finch and included support from R&B pianist Spooner Oldham and Durocs’ drummer Scott Matthews. Prophet’s guitar work was, however, also prominent, particularly on “Scarecrow”, the album’s most intense offering. Following Green On Red’s demise in 1992, Prophet was able to concentrate on his solo career, establishing himself as one of the most acclaimed singer-songwriters of the 90s. He has collaborated with several legendary songwriters, including Jim Dickinson, Billy Swan and Bob Neuwirth. In 1997, Prophet delivered Homemade Blood, a live studio set that contains several of his finest songs to date. He made an excellent contribution to Kelly Willis’ 1998 album What I Deserve.
Support on the night comes from Gallowbirds who plough a similar rootsy rock furrow to Chuck. Tickets are £12 and are available from Diverse Music, Spillers and here.
