Monday, June 20, 2011

Rod Melancon at the Mint in LA June 27

From the Louisiana bayou comes Rod Melancon who will be performing songs from his recently self-titled debut and pulling out songs from his upcoming (fall) release of the EP "My Family Name" (Produced by Richard Barron and Chad Watson with renowned American musician Herb Pederson lending a hand). Joining Rod Melancon onstage at the Mint will be Don Heffington on drums (Lucinda Williams, Emmylou Harris), Chad Watson on bass (Ronnie Milsap, Charlie Rich) and Vern Monnett on lead guitar (Freddy Fender, The Eagles).

When Rod Melancon's self-titled debut was released, he charted almost immediately on alternative country charts and began receiving international attention. Maverick Magazine said of the record, "“This is an album packed full of potential. Rod Melancon is a name for the future there is no doubt about that.” Many of the songs were inspired by family, friends, and personal experience, this young singer/songwriter has a wisdom way beyond his years with songs such as “Motel Room”, “On the Road”, "Home", and “Sweet Mary Ann”.

Melancon is a recent LA transplant and said living in Los Angeles has been a rewarding experience. He recently told the Louisiana newspaper, Vermilion Today “The people living in the city are so free spirited. You are who you are and no one judges you for being different.” On pronouncing his last name in California, he said no one gets it right. “I just correct them because my name is very important to me. I am very proud of my Cajun heritage." For those of you wondering, here is the phonetic pronunciation muh lawn sawn.

The young singer-songwriter has been likened to a young Johnny Cash and Steve Earle and prompted one fan to say, "I still remember the first time I saw Rod play. He was covering a Johnny Cash song. The first thought that came to my head was "Are you serious?" I asked how old he was and I about fell over. I knew then and there that this man was going to become a star!"

I can personally attest to this, as recently Melancon played the "back porch" for the roots series I curate with Julie Richmond, The Grand Ole Echo. When Rod opened his mouth and started singing, I thought to myself, "This kid is a throwback to the classic country sound" and I knew that I was listening to something special. It seems like many agree, as so many legendary musicians are willing to back him. Catch him live and judge for yourself!


The Mint LA
Monday, June 27th at 10 pm
$10/ 21+ http://www.themintla.com
6010 West Pico Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90035

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eecBmqM-n9s&feature=related

For more information: www.rodmelanconmusic.com

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