biographical info
It was 1967 when Dylan and The Band fused electric and acoustic instruments and invented a new genre. Almost Leather’s principal songwriter Chris Smith is still fanning that flame of folk rock. This style earned him a cult following via strong critical praise and word-of-mouth.
Chris’ aggressive yet melodic acoustic guitar approach blends effortlessly with Jason's blazing accordion. The rhythms are fat and tastey with famous Edmonton players Paul "Duke" Paetz on drums and Thom Golub on stand-up bass.
The three part harmonies from Chris, Duke and Jason really put the vocals in the driver seat; perfect for lyrics dense with imagery, abstractions and feelings.
The music’s a mix of roots: sharp-cornered rhythms that give more than a nod to country, the simple immediacy of folk, some raw, passionate rock, and a funky turn or two. Voluptuous melodies are supported by arrangements that are stripped bare of frills, just what ya see here, pal!.
lineup
Paul "Duke" Paetz drums\vocals
Tom Golub bass
Jason Kodie accordian\keyboards\vocals
Chris Smith guitar\vocals
influences
Elvis Costello
John Prine
Rheostatics
Ween
XTC