https://skopemag.com/2021/06/22/keith-curtis-releases-astounding-americana-debut-album-happiness-is-hard
Keith Curtis Releases Astounding Americana Debut Album ‘Happiness Is Hard’
by Skope • June 22, 2021
There are some debut records that are so perfectly realised, that you can tell it’s a result of a lifetime of experience living and breathing music. That is most definitely the case for Keith Curtis’ debut album ‘Happiness is Hard’. The Minneapolis based singer-songwriter has been honing his craft for over ten years and only now is he treating us to his unique blend of blues, Americana and indie-folk that swim through the three tracks that make up the album — and what a treat it is.
‘Taking Off And Landing’ eases us into the trilogy. Reminiscent of the Grammy-winning ‘Raising Sand,’ this track has its roots firmly planted in the acoustic landscape. What is so striking about the stunning sonic universe Keith Curtis has created is the gentle guitar riffs. They intertwine effortlessly, blending and binding beautifully throughout the track. Matt Guertin’s production is incredible in this one, as they spread out throughout the space of the mix; ‘Taking Off And Landing’ is a completely consuming listen. Next is ‘Real Good Love,’ my utter favourite off this album. Keith Curtis has fused the fundamentals of blues and Americana together and has sculpted a real moody atmosphere, which bursts into captivating optimism in the choruses. Keith Curtis’ vocals are outstanding throughout as he shows off his powerful performance prowess that is reminiscent of Americana stars before him, yet still feels like a totally fresh force in the scene. ‘Calculate’ concludes this divine debut, and does so with style, grace and an ethereal air that leaves you hanging on a string hoping for more. Kenny Wilson’s pedal steel transports this track to a whole new level; the acoustic ballad becomes a sonic experience swimming in luscious sweeping notions, at its core lying the true Americana soul. This core theme is the wind in the sails carrying us through the journey of ‘Happiness is Hard’. Whilst the title statement is most certainly true, you’ll still be likely to feel a wave of happiness, just as I did when sitting back and putting this stunning debut album on a slow summers evening this month.
Jun 2021
https://indiebandguru.com/keith-curtis-happiness-is-hard/
Keith Curtis is breaking through Minneapolis with his special blend of Americana and indie-rock. His passion and curiosity led him to pick-up the guitar and spend time covering other Americana, indie folk and acoustic rock artists. That experience provided him with knowledge that was pinnacle in Keith finding his own style. Now, Keith has prepared his debut EP Happiness Is Hard with three songs that will enchant you.
This release is Keith’s fully realized studio piece, and he really pulled out all the stops with this one. Keith utilized seasoned session players, a producer and sound engineer to make Happiness Is Hard as well rounded as possible. The result is three beautiful tracks that will be sure to please any fan of Americana, folk, and indie music.
Each track features impeccably written and performed instrumentals that make the vocals shine. “Taking Off And Landing” opens the EP with a bang. There’s such a delicate touch to this track and it immediately sweeps you off of your feet. It features playful woodwind elements and female background vocals to help add to the tenderness of the track.
“Real Good Love” showcases a much more dominant vocal from Keith. It helps prove that there’s diversity and depth within Keith’s music. The harmonica makes it’s powerful entrance in this track and helps make it stand out a bit from the rest.
“Calculate” closes out Happiness Is Hard bringing that more gentle folk side back out. There’s so much power in the delicate approach in Keith’s vocals. That’s when he shines the most, in that warm, tender spot of his voice.
Overall, Keith Curtis has really demonstrated his talents and his passion within this debut EP. Each song feels personal and intimate and shows maturity well beyond a debut release. Any fans of Americana, folk, or indie music should be sure to put Keith on their radar.
https://stepkid.com/2021/06/21/keith-curtis-happiness-is-hard/
Happiness is Hard is a new album from artist, Keith Curtis. Scheduled for an official release of 06/20/21, this acoustic driven Americana album is rich with delicate detail. The recording quality is such that you can hear every delightful note of the guitar. There’s almost a folkish quality to this music. It has an outdoorsy, open road feel. The songs are slightly romantic and convey a beautiful sense of innocence. The song Taking Off And Landing is a perfect duet featuring male and female vocals. Had it been released in the mid-1970’s it would probably be a top ten hit. Keith has a naturally cool voice, at times sounding like a country/Americana version of Lou Reed. Even though this EP contains only three tracks, it punches well above its weight musically. This is award winning caliber material right here.
Jun 2021