Americana roots rocker and singer songwriter Kenn Morr may not stand out in a crowd yet, but he is writing songs that could
become part of American musical culture. As the drummer with JJ Cale, these songs sounded pleasantly familiar poetically and the
delivery sincere and as irresistible as the reluctant legend from Tulsa himself. I sense the same humility and musical integrity in him as Cale, who retains a quiet on stage demeanor that allows the music to speak for itself. We also have crossed paths with Kenn on his musical journey with legendary producer Bob Johnston, who recorded my former boss, Charlie Daniels on Dylan's Nashville recordings. He has also been compared to Leonard Cohen who took Daniels on his first European tour years before we made a name for ourselves.
Kenn plays guitar, piano, mandolin, lap steel, harmonica and has even produced himself in his own home studio. He pulled off an impressive first runnerup status in my Sonicbids "Best Song In The World Competition", and this round was stiff as Richard Nixon.
Humble and well grounded, he may back peddle the notion, but his songs rate up there with tunes from Music City's finest writers. The Connecticut troubadour has the rare ability to chart what appears to be familiar territory but taking a fresh new path. His latest CD Move On, is unique, the lyrics universal and his vocal delivery comparable to Gordon Lightfoot and Tom Petty at the top of their game.
Kenn's vocal patterns are guarded, genuine, original and intriguing. He seems to have an unending well of melodies that echo purpose and evoke deep thought and a well balanced laid back approach to life and song. I appreciate an unconventional style with conviction; Kenn along with his band are a pleasant and interesting combination. The songs from his fourth CD Move On, are honest and personal and seem to be from a kindler gentler place than where we live today. It takes masterful lyrics and thought provoking topics to take the audience on that trip.
Kenn has an eclectic style that successfully blends jazz, rock folk and countless textures and colors . I first saw Kenn on YouTube, and I flashed back to seeing a young Donovan opening for English rockers, Yes. Donovan also trekked back and forth to Nashville in the early days and cut several singles on small labels before radio gave him the proverbial nod. Kenn is radio ready, now he has to let radio jump on his bandwagon. JJ Cale says do what you do best and let your audience come around to you.
I advise Kenn to enjoy the family time and the mountain foothill scenery before record companies and promoters start pounding on his door with corporate sponsored deals and a year long itinerary. The power to realize your dreams are in your hands and in your songs. If you follow the music, all the rest will follow. Congratulations and much success! Artists of your caliber is what makes it all worthwhile for me to be involved. Merry Christmas & rock the new year with a joyful noise my friend!
- Gary Allen (JJ Cale, The Charlie Daniels Band)
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