Fear of a Blank Planet

Artist Guide » Rock » Roots Rock » WILLAMENA: Far from the Current

In 1996, Kalamazoo, Michigan-based Willamena set out to combine outstanding songwriting with high-energy roots rock. The band's story-telling lyrics, seamless guitar work, and exceptional work ethic over the years have paid off, in critically-acclaimed songs and an award-winning live show packed with energy and emotion. Willamena's timely, polished sound begins with Lucas Ross (lead vocals/guitar) and Chad Hendrickson (lead guitar/vocals). The duo's songwriting brings a truly fresh approach to classic roots rock by combining smooth, grooving elements, lush guitars, and driving rhythm. With the addition of Chris Newman (bass, vocals), Ted Mitchell (drums), and Dylan Nau (keys, guitar, vocals), Willamena amps up the classic singer-songwriter style into a big-time, high-octane, rock-n-roll experience. After releasing their first (and well-received) CD "High Price to Pay" in 1997, Willamena gigged relentlessly, opening for such touring acts as Fishbone, The Why Store, Big Brother and the Holding Company, SR-71, Nine Days, Thought Industry, and many others. Eventually, Willamena earned a reputation as the hardest-working band in Michigan, and surpassed over 140 other acts to win the Grand Rapids-based 2001 Aris Hampers/101.3FM Hometown Rock Search. In May, 2002, Willamena released "Ghost of July" to excellent local reviews and ever-increasing local sales. The band's second CD has a sharp focus, a rich sound, and it packs a big punch. Willamena's third CD "Far From the Current" was released in February, 2004 to rave local reviews, even faster local sales, and various awards and achievements. The band will maintain its rigorous show schedule behind "Current" as part of its pursuit of a major-label deal.

Check out the artist's website:
http://www.willamena.net

Track List:
1. One Step Ahead of the Storm
2. Never Gonna Change
3. Standing Still
4. Nowhere Before
5. Drifting Bird
6. Landscape
7. Where'd the Love Go?
8. Rock-N-Roll
9. Spring Thaw
10. Passion and Pain
11. L-train
12. Back on You
13. Shelter
14. I Woke UP

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