Indie icon Ben Kweller has captivated fans and critics for nearly two decades with his eclectic music style and refusal to conform to trends. Known for his acclaimed debut album "Sha Sha" and touring with luminaries like The Strokes and Ed Sheeran, Kweller remains a cultural mainstay. Despite the tragic loss of his son Dorian, an emerging artist, in a car accident at just 16, Kweller perseveres, honoring Dorian's memory by continuing to create and tour. Joined by "Texas piano man" Robert Ellis, Chris Mintz-Plasse (bass), and Ryan Dean (drums)., Kweller's upcoming shows feature a poignant tribute to Dorian, reflecting his enduring legacy in music.
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Recorded live to tape in just two days, Robert Ellis's latest album, "Yesterday's News," showcases his stripped-down approach with delicate vocals and sparse instrumentation. Drawing on influences from English songwriters like Nick Drake and Richard Thompson, Ellis delivers harmonically sophisticated arrangements with subtle, nuanced performances reminiscent of Chet Baker and Bill Evans. Despite his previous album's raucous energy, Ellis is no stranger to subverting expectations, having explored diverse musical styles across five solo albums. Praised by NPR for his musical daring and impeccable songcraft, Ellis's work has earned acclaim from Rolling Stone and the New York Times for his sharp storytelling and emotional depth. "Yesterday's News" marks his debut LP for Niles City Records, an extension of the renowned Niles City Sound studio in Fort Worth, TX, co-founded by Ellis and longtime collaborator Josh Block.
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