ALBUM REVIEW by Susan Varnes-Newland
(Guest blogger from Grieve The Astronaut) ~ ~

First off, kudos to Seattle Wave Radio’s Mark Gordon, for having a fantastic ear that matches my travels. For the past few months, I’ve been cruising around in the Southern Blues Country. I’ve developed a definite taste, feel and understanding for the blues. Each pocket of the country, has developed its own approach to this musical storytelling style.

TuN Facebook

My first exposure to Tun, was their music video for “Magic”, from their newly released album “Mercury Retrograde”. Mark had sent it to me and asked, what do you think? I was blown away! This is a Pacific Northwest Band? I loved how it was filmed depicting a red brick venue, perfectly capturing the feel of an old blues club.

• TUN - Water Bearer

What I loved even more, was their sound. A fun blend of Blues, Funk and the homegrown PNW Rock. Tun is a 5 piece band, filled with passionately skilled instrumentalists, fronted with a fresh, soulful voice. Composer Chris Cootsona on keyboards and vocals, Nick Fair on guitar, Will Bagby drums and Bill DeHart on bass. The Voice of this powerhouse band is Lauren Santi. Every song on their new album “Mercury Retrograde” has a different musical vibe. “ Invincible” had me up groovin’ to a funky bass rhythm. While “Water Bearer” brought me to my feet, standing and waving a fan, to its soul filled gospel blues. My mind was filled with visuals of steamy, packed clubs and rooms.

Their attention to detail in not only their songs, but also their music videos is impressive. I would have never guessed that this was their debut album. They are the perfect combination of experience and energy. Taking us back to the Janis Joplin era of funky blues, with a little Stevie Ray Vaughan thrown into the mix.

Although Mercury In Retrograde creates an optical illusion, Tun’s “ Mercury Retrograde” does not. They are the real Funky Blues Deal.

LET’S ROCK!

SUSAN IN SEATTLE