Live In Minneapolis
Self-Released, 2023
8/10
Originally from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, but now a Minneapolis resident, the long running singer-songwriter and guitarist Eli Gardiner captured these tracks live on February 3rd, 2023 with the help of Greg Schutte, Dan Schwartz, Kevin Gamble and Nick Salisbury.
“People Of The Bear” begins the set with some rugged strumming and warm atmosphere thanks to Schutte’s thumping drums and Schwartz’s cozy pedal steel amid Gardiner’s raw yet smooth voice, and “Boat At Sea” follows with a thicker display of hazy folk-rock that carries a slight jangle, too.
Halfway through, “Flatlands” makes great of Gamble’s moody keys alongside the vivid storytelling that emits a bit of mystery, while “Mountain”, a song about Montana, uses harmonica strategically and a slight twang that would go well with Rocky Votolato’s classic tune, “Montana”.
The evening ends with “Bad Weed” and “Saints Among Us”, where the former is an electric guitar fueled stand out track that embraces blues and classic rock nods, and the latter buzzes with Salisbury’s skilled bass and the subtle keys complementing Gardiner’s distinct singing.
Certainly Americana and folk inspired, but not shying away from Heartland Rock, too, Gardiner is quickly making a name for himself in the always fertile Minneapolis singer-songwriter scene, and he made me a fan thanks to these relatable and well thought out songs.
Travels well with: Scott Allen- My Own Grown Eyes; The Jorgensens- Americana Soul