Ed Dupas 'Tennessee Night'

-Kelly

Texas born, Detroit, Michigan-based Ed Dupas' second album Tennessee Night comes bolting out of the gate with the rollicking first single "Too Big To Fail," which is just a taste of what's to follow from this Americana newcomer.  Recorded in Grand Rapids, MI, with producer Michael Crittenden, Dupas' sound falls somewhere between the grittiness of Steve Earle and the swagger of Dwight Yoakam.  The 11 song set features a nice balance of ballads and rockers, with special guests Judy Banker, Cole Hanson, and Tara Cleveland.

"Two Wrongs" follows the lead single in the uptempo rocker mode and then Dupas slows it down slightly for the pleasant journey of "Heading Home Again," which features Banker on lovely harmony vocals.  The banjo and pedal steel compliment Dupas' vocals nicely and the lyrics paint a picture of a homesick troubadour.

"Do It For Me," "Some Things," and "Promised Land" are all weeper ballads, the latter a favorite with its soft shuffle and heartbreaking lyrics.  Meanwhile, "Anthem" and "Everything's In Bloom" - a road weary song that bounces along to more plucky banjo, wrapping around Dupas' and Hanson's harmonies beautifully - pick up the tempo once again.

Dupas has a rich baritone that conveys real life alongside a rawness present in his voice that drives home the depth of the lyrics which come to life with each successive listen. With his solid debut,  A Good American Life  and now Tennessee Night as its follow-up, Dupas is crafting his own niche in the Americana scene.

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