A Review of Wabash Gypsies
Greeson and Ludwig are well-established local artists, and Wabash Gypsies is a stunning work, also informed by adversity. Conceived as a tribute to Greeson’s first wife, who, after a long bout, died of congenital heart disease a few years back, the album has been almost a decade in the making and, as Greeson says, was part of his healing process. One song, “The Prophet,” was used in the recently aired PBS documentary, “Wabash: Life On The Bright White River,” and it is from this that the album takes its title. But nothing can truly prepare you for the beautiful instrumental work that lies within. The intertwining of Greeson and Ludwig’s acoustic guitars is gorgeous, almost mystical, but nevertheless is rooted in fine pop hooks and excellent songwriting. Opener “Awakening” lays out the template with the double picking of the acoustics sending forth a crystal clear sound and, if I’m not mistaken, also contains the occasional nod to the Moody Blues. “Llama Dance” has one guitar strumming and the other picking, with signature hooks dotting the landscape. “Winter Banks” has a stunning “chiming” sound, while “Gypsies On The Wabash” starts with a mellow sound but evolves into a blues-jazz hybrid of great originality. “Tunnel Of Trees’ provides more of an edge to the proceedings than the other tunes, underscored by some Mellencamp-like chord changes, while “Prayer Without Words” is almost classical in its elegance. For this listener, acoustic guitar discs sometimes induce drowsiness and inattention, but that is never the case with Wabash Gypsies, as the top-notch songwriting and playing commands, indeed, demands, your attention throughout. While Greeson has put out laudable works before this, his partnership with Ludwig has yielded something even finer. Highly recommended!
Tim wrote the following in his blog pertaining to Scott being one of the top ten influential people of the decade as pertains to the regional music scene. Tim wrote the following in his January 2010 blog:
Scott Greeson — While he probably won’t take credit, the humble Greeson has been a mentor to a strong crop of singer-songwriters that have included Annie Hatke, Malachi Jaggers and many others. With a backing band or solo, Greeson has played all over Indiana and has recorded some well-crafted albums — either his own or his peers’ — in his own home studio. Perhaps the nicest guy in the scene; perhaps the planet, too.
Speaking of Scott Greeson and Kevin Ludwig, Stone wrote in his review of Wabash Gypsies: “These two guys plus two guitars equals fine music”
"Scott Greeson is always a crowd pleaser and class act when he comes to Verizon Wireless Music Center. Our VIPs love it when he comes to play!!"
"I really appreciate the fact that as I listen to Scott, I feel like I am really hearing him… I never get the sense that he is trying to be someone else. That honesty in his writing allows me to concentrate on what he is saying, both musically and lyrically, and I often find that I can relate to it with a kind of 'Yeah… I know what you mean.' … I also admire the fact that Scott has done so much for other local artists, whether helping them in the studio, or simply encouraging them to find their own voice, and sharing with others."
"Scott Greeson is a dynamic entertainer that was a great addition to the Marshall County Blueberry Festival. I would recommend him to any size festival. He is a great crowd-pleaser!"
"Thank you for your performances at the Lafayette Farmers' Market and the Community Sing/Holiday Lighting Celebration. Your professionalism and music are outstanding. You do a wonderful job of interacting with the crowd. Your joyfulness, happiness, and enthusiasm for life are reflected in your music."
"When I think of Scott combining his talents for the guests of the Great
Banquet Weekend, I am reminded of what it's like to have God's Spirit in the room; Scott sings inspired. His heart is one that is seeking God's heart, and it shows in his music, his lyrics, and his performances. I am both proud and humbled to be able to call Scott a friend."
"Scott provides a superb performance with his captivating mix of original material and cover songs."
"Thank goodness Scott Greeson is not only a superb performer but also a prolific and inspirational recording artist. Scott's first two CDs -- Hoosier Surf and The Proving Grounds -- are chock full of original songs from the heart of the heartland."
"His music is perfect for a family based celebration. I was very pleased at the positive audience response that Scott Received from his original as well as contemporary favorites that he performed. If you're considering Scott for future plans, I would recommend him."
"Some artists perform the songs, some artists are the songs. Scott is definitely the latter. His original lyrics truly come from the heart, and that's a welcome change from what plays on the radio."
"Scott Greeson is an artist that is true to his vision. His sincerity shines through his music."
"What an entertaining and relaxing evening we had with Scott's wonderful performance at our coffee house. It's amazing how he so successfully brings his own unique style to so many types of music. There's something there for everyone. We are anticipating his return performance!"
For a list of places where Scott has performed in the past, click here.