Articles and Reviews

Roots rocker calls Colebrook home

2009-08-25T09:53:00.000-07:00

By JULIE WEISBERG – Staff Reporter
August, 14, 2009

WINSTED — The Northwest Corner has played muse to countless artists who have sought inspiration from its deep green forests, rolling hills and running waters.

Among them is musician Kenn Morr.

Morr, who moved to Colebrook from Long Island nine years ago, has been writing and recording his own brand of American roots rock music for more than a decade.

But the veteran singer/songwriter credits his relocation to the area with helping to move his musical career forward.

“When I was in New York I was writing about all of this,” he said, standing in his kitchen and motioning to the blooming flora outside his Sandy Brook Road home. “And now here I am, and it’s all around me.”

For the past several years, The Kenn Morr Band has been a staple performer at Winsted’s annual summer concerts at East End Park.

And next week Morr and his band will close out this season’s series. The concert will take place on the park’s Rotary Stage Thursday, Aug. 20, beginning at 7 p.m.

Although he now performs at several other outdoor venues throughout the area each year, Morr said Winsted will always be a special place for him to play live.

“Winsted was one of the first local towns I played after moving up to Connecticut,” he said. “I came here virtually unknown, and places like Winsted helped me; they took a chance.”

He added that the park itself, and those who attend the concerts, also contribute to the fun.

“There is something really nice about playing there,” Morr said. “I love the park. And we always have good crowds there. They are very receptive.”

In 2004, Morr released “New Moon Rising,” which was recorded in Nashville and produced by Bob Johnston, who produced Bob Dylan’s “Blonde on Blonde” and “Highway 61.”

“I learned from the best,” Morr said of the experience.

About four years ago, however, Morr completed work on his own home recording studio. Since then, he has self-produced, recorded and mixed his last two albums — “Coming Home” and “Move On” — there.

Both records were also released through his own label, Sandybrook Records.

“It’s all done here. This is the factory,” he said, adding that the only part of the CD-making process that is not completed in his Colebrook studio is the mastering, which is done in Nashville.

Currently, Morr — who shares his home with his wife, Jackie, sons Nolan, 8, and James, 5, and the family dog, Lightfoot (named after one of Morr’s musical heroes, Gordon Lightfoot) — is completing work on a new album due out early next year.

The band’s newest album, “Move On,” generated a lot of interest and solid reviews, especially in Europe. Morr said he hopes to build on that success with the new record, both abroad and here at home.

“With this next record we’re hoping to make enough noise for somebody to say, ‘Hey, come [tour] with us,’” Morr said, adding that once the album is completed, he would like to have a local CD release party to celebrate.

“But whatever the plan is, that’s what I’ll subscribe to,” he said of the future.

For more information about The Kenn Morr Band, visit kennmorr.com. Morr’s music is also available for download on iTunes and at CDBaby.com.

A Review in Melodic.Net, Sweden

2009-05-23T11:18:00.000-07:00

Kenn Morr - "Move On"
I don't know if it's good or bad to have such a wide taste for music that I have. One day I'm into Skillet, the other day I'm into classic AOR a'la Journey, the third day I'm into soft american midwest rock and in that way it goes... Probably it's good I beieve. Anyway - here is a guy that you can put under the "SOFT AMERICAN MIDWEST" - sort of music. Let's make it clear from the start - Kenn Morr sits on a very strong cool voice somewhere between John Prine, Mark Knopfler and Shawn Mullins and there are a bunch of very nice songs on the album...
by Par Winberg

Le Cri Du Coyote Magazine - France

2009-04-27T19:09:00.000-07:00

The first 2 CD's of a resident of Connecticut via Long Island were produced by Bob Johnston known for his works with Bob Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel, Leonard Cohen and other artists. This 3rd CD is produced without Bob. And is this a mistake? Not really! In this case, he produces and writes all 12 songs and plays a bunch of instruments. Kenn Morr is totally responsible for the results! Rest assured, he is not an embarrasment: the folk rock he supports is good business, kind of part Elliot Murphy and John Mellencamp. Moreover, interest grows with each listen. For example, a song like Move On doesn't come on strong the first listen, but by the 5th listen, you're hooked! A very good sign. This album is dedicated to the memory of Dan Fogelberg and is part of (our) good picks at this time of year.(JJC)
(Translated by Mimi Burnham)

Boston Music Spotlight - Getting To Know The Kenn Morr Band

2009-04-15T07:25:00.000-07:00

This week, get to know The Kenn Morr Band. You can catch the band's next area show at Mocha Maya's Coffee House in Shelburne Falls on April 18.

Band Name: The Kenn Morr Band
Members:Kenn Morr: Vocals, Guitar, Piano (Colebrook, CT)
Bob Gaspar: Percussion/Drums (Barkhamsted, CT)
Dan Hocott: Bass/Backing Vocals (Southington, CT),
Tom Hagymasi: Bouzouki, Violin, Accordion (Torrington, CT)

Releases:
Move On (2008)
Coming Home (2006)
New Moon Rising (2004)

Website: www.KennMorr.com
www.myspace.com/wwwkennmorrcom

How did you start/form the band?

I'm originally from Long Island and grew up just 35 mins from NYC. I started performing as a solo act. Then a duo playing mostly covers. When I decided to play all-original material I was able to draw from the bottomless sea of wonderful musicians from LI and NYC. We moved to Colebrook to live in the country and raise a family. I quickly realized this area is also soaked with amazingly talented musicians and I've been fortunate enough to find players who totally "get" or understand my music.

Who are some of your influences?

Bob Dylan, Cat Stevens, Dan Fogelberg, CSN, Jackson Browne, Tom Petty etc.

Finish the sentence: Someone would like your band if they like...

Honest, Melodic, Rhythmic, Rootsy and Poetic music (or the music from the above artists.)

What has your most memorable moment as a band been?

Wow. Tough question. "Most memorable" is recording the New Moon Rising CD in Nashville with the legendary Producer Bob Johnston (who produced albums by Bob Dylan, Simon and Garfunkel, Johnny Cash etc.) "Most memorable" as a band ? Too many to list.

Walk us through your songwriting process:

Most of the time songwriting starts with playing an instrument and a lick or melodic line will come. Usually lyrics will start to fall into place based on the mood or feel of the music. At the very least I record the idea and initial lyric and let it sit. If I listen to it later and I like it enough to continue I'll complete the song and then record a "demo" (for myself) and let THAT sit. If (later) the "demo" is something I like listening to then I know I'll want to sing it and record it for a CD.

Sometimes songs starts with a lyric and I'll sit at the piano or pick up a guitar and hope the lyric will channel the musical "mood". It is never a conscious process. If it is...the song usually doesn't see the light of day because it's too contrived.

Who is the best musician in your band?

Someone in the music business once taught me (very) early on "always surround yourself with musicians who are more accomplished than you are. Make sure YOU are the weak link in the band." I can honestly say the current line-up is my most cohesive group yet. It is literally "effortless" to play with these guys. They have all been in countless other bands and projects and each bring a crucial ingredient to the overall sound.

What is your favorite local venue?

Infinity Hall in Norfolk, CT. It's a wonderful old theatre recently re-furbished. I had the pleasure of appearing there with Aztec Two Step in December. However, my favorite venue(s) are still the outdoor town green concerts we play in the summer. People of all ages come out to hear original music and there's nothing like playing music outdoors under the stars on a summer evening.

What separates you from other local bands?

The original songs and the way they are played. This is a band of highly-seasoned musicians all of whom come from different musical places and they seem to totally understand the vision.

What do you have coming up that people should know about?

We are playing this wonderful venue in Shelburne Falls Mass. called Mocha Maya's. It's an intimate place so we plan on playing it scaled-down and acoustic. It's located at 47 Bridge St. (413) 625-6292. The show starts at 8:30.

Convince our readers to see your next show.

If you like melodic, rhythmic, insightful, poetic and very accessible music presented by totally seasoned professionals through harmonies, electric and acoustic instruments... this band is a must-see.

Red Hot Rock Magazine, Sweden

2009-04-05T08:29:00.001-07:00

Kenn Morr - Move On (English Translation)

For me, Kenn Morr was an unknown name which here releases a truly nice, grown-up Americana album in the spirit of Bob Dylan, John Hiatt and Tom Petty...well- produced and with great song material. There's an easy-going aura about the material, making my thoughts wander off to The Byrds, Eagles and Jayhawks. A comfortable, not too “countrified” sound, quite simply. “River Song” is best, literally floating forwards, plus “Get Back” which quite easily could have been taken from Tom Petty's 'Wildflowers'.

- Petter Seander / Red Hot Rock Magazine -

Kenn Morr at the Peace Cafe'

2009-03-08T11:54:00.000-07:00

March 2009
The Peace Café – Is winter finally coming to an end????

February was a cold month but the Peace Café still had a very warm and welcome show on Valentine’s Day. With a heart shaped theme of reds and whites, the coffeehouse was decked out for an evening to remember Love and both artists played a mix of Love and Love Lost songs that emphasized great instrumentals and wonderful harmonies.

The Opening Artists were new to the Peace Café. Kenn Morr lives in Colebrook, CT. He and his guitar and came to Southington along with Dan Hocott (Bass - Dan lives in Southington) and Bob Gaspar (Drums). It looked like an awkward ensemble on the stage at first, but once the music started it was like a steam locomotive that took the audience on a wild ride down the tracks.

Playing songs from their 3 CDs, they entertained the audience with Pay the Price (Once More), Move On, River Song and Cold Winds. They played Mesa Moon and then went into Lazy Afternoon with some great Bass and Drum solos. In The Name of Rock and Roll kept the pace at top speed before Kenn slowed things down with a song written for his wife, Jackie, called Still Need You Near, a lovely thoughtful tune that reflected on love and family. Jackie and his two fine sons were at the coffeehouse for this. They finished up with a nice piece called Higher Ground. Kenn Morr and his band are a great example of the talent available to us all and we look forward to their return next season.

I am Dan Gabree and you can reach me or others on the Peace Café Committee at PeaceCafe@FirstChurchSouthington.Org.

Kenn Morr "Move On" A Review In Folk World (Germany) Written by Adolf ‘gorhand Goriup

2009-03-07T09:39:00.000-08:00

Singer/Songwriter Kenn Morr ist in seinem Zuhause in Connecticut eine in die ländliche Gemeinschaft eingebundene Persönlichkeit, hat aber mit „Move on“ bereits sein drittes international anerkanntes Album mit zwölf selbst geschriebenen Songs veröffentlicht. Morr singt und spielt Gitarren, Piano, Mandoline und Mundharmonika und wurde bei den Aufnahmen von seinen ständigen musikalischen Begleitern Bob Gasper (Drums, Perkussion) und Dan Hocott (Bass, Gesang) wie auch von Karen Nolan (Geige) und den Sängern Rex Fowler und Annie Golden unterstützt.
Die CD beginnt mit dem Titelsong, einem stillen Song, bei dem das Piano die gefühlvollen Gesänge von Morr und Hocott begleitet. Und in diesem Stil geht es weiter mit sanften balladenhaften Liedern (Make You mine), stillen bluesigen (Once more) und rhythmisch-melodiösen (River Song) Songs. „Don’t turn around“ beginnt mit Nolans Geigenspiel, Morrs Piano und Gaspers Schlagzeug bevor Fowler und Morr ein wunderschönes Duett singen. Karen Nolan, die 1979 in dem Musical Hair debütierte, ist vor allem als Schauspielerin bekannt, jedoch zeigt sie bei „Girl with the auburn Hair“, dass sie noch immer eine tolle Gesangsstimme hat. Morr singt die eindringliche Hauptstimme und wird mit ihrem hypnotischen Sopran hinterlegt. Mandoline, Geige, Gitarre und der schleppende Rhythmus verstärken den Effekt noch und machen den Song zu meinem absoluten Favoriten.
Das Album hat mir mit seinen schönen Gesängen, der musikalisch einwandfreien Begleitung und den stillen Songs recht gut gefallen. Schade dass es nicht mehr Stücke wie meinen Lieblingssong gibt, denn der ist wirklich großartig.
www.kennmorr.com
Adolf 'gorhand' Goriup

(A “rough” translation of the above review In Folk World (Germany) Written Adolf ‘gorhand Goriup)

Singer/songwriter Kenn Morr is in his home in Connecticut a personality integrated in the rural community, however, has published with "Move on" already his third internationally approved album with twelve self-written songs. Morr sings and plays the guitars, piano, mandolin and oral accordion and was supported with the admissions by his constant musical companions Bob Gasper (drums, percussion) and Dan Hocott (bass, sing) as well as by Karen Nolan (violin) and the singers Rex Fowler and Annie Golden.
The CD begins with the title song, a quiet song with which the piano accompanies the soulful songs of Morr. And in this style it further goes with gentle ballads-like songs (Make You mine), songs breastfeed bluesigen (Once more) and rhythmical-tuneful (River song).

Don't Turn Around “ violin play begins with Nolans, Morrs sing piano and Gaspers percussion before Fowler and Morr a wonderful duet. To cirques Nolan which debuted in 1979 in the musical Hair is known above all as an actress, however, she shows in "Girl with the auburn Hair" that she still has a great song voice. Morr sings the urgent main voice and is deposited with her hypnotic soprano. Mandolin, violin, guitar and the plodding rhythm still strengthen the effect and do the song my absolute favorite.

I have liked the album with his nice songs, the musically flawless company and the quiet songs rather well. Because he is really great.

Popolo del Blues - Italy- Kenn Morr's Move On

2009-02-13T06:32:00.000-08:00

Move on is Kenn Morr's new album. This album features songs inspired by the folk era of 60s with great lyrics.

Kenn Morr è un cantautore originario di Long Island ma da tempo di base nel Connecticut con alle spalle un buona carriera come autore e una collaborazione ormai stabile con il famoso produttore Bob Johnstone con il quale ha realizzato New Moon Rising e Coming Home ma soprattutto il recentissimo Move On. Il disco si caratterizza per un songwriting folk di ottima qualità, nel quale spesso fanno capolino atmosfere elettriche. Il disco all’ascolto si svela in tutta la sua piacevole sobrietà, i brani si caratterizzano per atmosfere folk rock in cui spesso tutti gli strumenti sono suonati dall’autore fatta eccezione per Bob Gasper che suona la batteria e Dan Hacott il basso. Godibili sono le atmosfere dei vari brani caratterizzati da riusciti intrecci ora tra chitarra acustica, steel guitar e violino ora dal pianoforte che spesso qua e la sottolinea i momenti più melodici. Molto particolare è poi la sua voce, molto vicina a quella di Nick Drake e spesso caratterizzata da momenti appena sussurrati, quando poi interviene il controcanto di Annie Golden si va vicinissimi alla magia come nel caso della poetica Still Need Your Hear o della sontuosa Girl With the Auburn Hair. Brani migliori del disco sono certamente la corale Once More e al più movimentata Let’s Take Tonight, in cui brilla la sezione ritmica. Se Move On fosse stato pubblicato trent’anni fa probabilmente avrebbe avuto il giusto riscontro diversamente resterà un disco, senza dubbio intenso ma che non smuoverà di una virgola il sistema musicale americano.

Salvatore Esposito

Review in MazzMuzikaS Free-zine 102, Belgium

2008-09-09T11:14:00.000-07:00

Kenn Morr / Move On / Eigen beheer (www.kennmorr.com)
Kenn Morr is een singer-songwriter die vroeger op Long Island woonde en nu alweer geruime tijd in het noordwesten van Connecticut woont. Volgens de begeleidende informatie is Kenn toe aan zijn vierde cd, opmerkelijk feit is dat zijn tweede cd New Moon Rising (2003) werd geproduceerd door niemand minder dan Bob Johnston (o.m. Bob Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel, Leonard Cohen). Maar zowel die cd als de zelfgeproduceerde opvolger Coming Home (2006) hebben mij nooit bereikt. Wel dus deze nummer 4, ook weer door Kenn zelf geproduceerd. Na ettelijke luisterbeurten komt een rustig en subtiel totaalbeeld naar voren. Denk aan J.J. Cale’s stem, maar dan nog meer fluisterend en relaxt, denk aan Cale’s ritmes zoals in het prijsnummer After Midnight dan heb je een eerste beeld van deze cd. Overigens voor alle zekerheid: Kenn rockt aanzienlijk minder dan J.J. In de begeleiding horen we voornamelijk Kenn zelf (akoestische gitaar, elektrische gitaar, 12 string gitaar, lap steel gitaar, piano, mandoline, harmonica en vocalen). Daarnaast is er een belangrijke rol voor Bob Gasper, die allerlei percussie-instrumenten bespeelt. Op bas is ene Dan Hocott actief, op viool Karen Nolan. Rex Fowler zingt mee op één nummer en Annie Golden (ooit actief in de film Hair) op twee nummers. Waar zingt Kenn zoal over? Hij geeft advies om de toekomst met meer optimisme te bekijken in Move On en het pakkende walsje Don’t Turn Around. De liefde speelt de hoofdrol in onder meer Make You Mine (maar Kenn klinkt daarbij zo relaxed dat hij ogenschijnlijk geen haast maakt met wat hij in de titel wil), River Song, Still Need You Near, Let’s Take Tonight, Girl With The Auburn Hair (mysterieus) en Everything Will Be Fine. Er zijn wat accentjes uit de reggaehoek (Get Back) en uit de Ierse hoek. Rustige cd, misschien zelfs iets te ontspannen, maar dat is op een mooie warme zomeravond met een glaasje whisk(e)y onder bereik precies wat we willen. (FS)

Review in MazzMuzikaS Free-zine 102

2008-09-09T11:09:00.000-07:00

Kenn Morr / Move On / Eigen beheer (Translated by: Rijnep Vaneldik)
Kenn Morr is a Singer-Songwriter who used to live in L.I. and now resides in Ct. According to the information in the jacket, Kenn is already on his 4th CD. It is remarkable that his 2nd CD New Moon Rising (2003) was produced by (no) one less than Bob Johnston (o.m.Bob Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel, Leonard Cohen) . But I never got that CD nor the self produced CD that followed, Coming Home(2006). However, I did get #4 which was also produced by Kenn himself. After listening to it several times you recognize a quiet and subtle overall impression. You can get a feel for the CD if you think of J.J.Cales voice, but even more whispering and relaxed, think of Cale's rhythms such as you hear in the favorite number After Midnight. By the way, Kenn rocks considerably less than J.J.. In the accompaniment we hear mostly Kenn himself (acoustic guitar, 12 string, lap steel, piano, mandolin, harmonica and voice.) There is also an important role for Bob Gaspar, who plays all kinds of percussion instruments. Dan Hcott plays bass, Karen Nolan plays violin. Rex Fowler (Aztec Two-Step)sings along on one number and Annie Golden (who has a role in the movie Hair) in 2 of the numbers.
What kind of things does Kenn sing about? He advises to be more optimistic about the future in Move On and in the waltz Don't Turn Around. Love is the main theme in such numbers as Make you Mine (however, Kenn sounds so relaxed that it seems like he is in no hurry to get what the title indicates), River Song, Still Need You Near, Let's Take Tonight, Girl with the Auburn Hair (mysterious) and Everything Will be Fine.
There are some accents from the reggae genre (Get Back) and of the Irish genre. Overall a quiet CD, perhaps even too relaxed, but then, that is exactly what we want on a beautiful summer evening, with a glass of whiskey in hand.

Kenn Morr- Move On

2008-09-01T16:24:00.000-07:00

In this era of corporate-sponsored artists and packaged bands, it’s refreshing to hear a singer/songwriter who recalls a time when music was for the people, thinking at Bob Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel, Leonard Cohen, The Byrds, Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson .... Kenn Morr's new cd is a throwback to the outstanding adult rock of the last years. The recording bridges the gap between generations of music listeners. Morr proves he can live up to his influences, writing meaningful songs ranging from the reggae-inspired “Get Back”, rock-influenced “Let’s Take Tonight”, to the country “River Song”. Hopefully, more quality albums will follow.

- www.rootstime.be

Kenn Morr-"Move On"- Review by RadioIndy

2008-06-12T09:15:00.000-07:00

"Move On" by Kenn Morr is an adult rock album fused with a little country. The standout aspect of this CD is Ken's intimate and honest voice, which draws you in. The arrangements are subtle and deep with nice layers, including tasteful harmonies on a number of tracks. Kenn’s style is very laid back and "cool." Another great quality is the varying textures of the songs, each having it's own identity. You'll hear a great number of influences, such as reggae and Celtic, as well as an overall organic nature to the sound that supports the lyrical content. Highlights are "Get Back" with a nice piano progression and some smooth vocals. "Blue Morn" features some nice harmonica work, nice vocal delivery and interesting changes. "Girl With the Auburn Hair" is cleverly mysterious, with a road weary feel. If you enjoy adult rock/contemporary artists with deep voices and deep messages, you’ll enjoy this CD.
-William and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team

Kenn Morr - Move On- www.rootstime.be

2008-06-05T18:44:00.000-07:00

Op een bijgevoegde flyer wordt de volgende vraag gesteld: wat heeft Kenn Morr gemeen met Bob Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel, Leonard Cohen, The Byrds, Johnny Cash, Louis Armstrong, Jimmy Cliff, Carl Perkins & Willie Nelson? Hebt u misschien enig idee? Wel, hier is het antwoord: hun platen werden allemaal ooit geproduceerd door de legendarische knoppenspecialist Bob Johnston. Ontgoocheld door dit antwoord? Dat hoeft niet echt want Bob Johnston heeft het allerbeste uit Kenn Morr gehaald en samengebundeld op diens album “New Moon Rising” uit 2004. De originaliteit van zijn songschrijverstalent, de melodieuze vlot in het gehoor liggende muziek en zijn muzikale, maniakale drang naar perfectie zitten vervat in dit werkje. Dat album betekende de grote doorbraak voor de uit Connecticut stammende Kenn Morr die in 2006 nog een album onder de titel “Coming Home” uitbracht en ons nu zijn nieuwste cd “Move On” heeft toegestuurd. Deze keer heeft hij de plaat zelf geproduceerd en voller doen klinken door toevoeging van een groter instrumentarium, inclusief piano, mandoline, viool, lap steel, mondharmonica en subtiel aanwezige percussie. Voor drie van de nummers zocht en kreeg hij sterke vocale ondersteuning: Rex Fowler zingt mee op het nummer “Don’t Turn Around” en de unieke stem van Annie Golden prijkt trots op “Still Need You Near” (een absoluut hoogtepunt op deze plaat) en op “Girl With The Auburn Hair”. Die kleine dame zal voor eeuwig in onze herinneringen blijven dankzij het liedje “Tell Me Your Plans” dat ze de hitlijsten inzong met The Shirts in 1978, alweer 30 jaar geleden. Dat leverde haar toen een glansrol op in de musical en in de film “Hair”. Maar we zouden het hier voornamelijk over Kenn Morr hebben en diens nieuwe cd “Move On”. Wel, dit werkje bevat 12 zelfgeschreven goede liedjes die stuk voor stuk een gedreven zanger laten horen met een pakkend stemgeluid. De meeste van deze nummers kan je na een paar beluisteringen probleemloos meeneuriën. De liedjes hebben een intiem karakter en bestaan uit eerlijke en op het persoonlijke leven geïnspireerde teksten. De titeltrack “Move On” is een muzikale brief aan een vriend met de raad om het trieste verleden te vergeten en optimistisch naar de toekomst te kijken. Ditzelfde onderwerp komt aan bod in de song “Don’t Turn Around”. Het liedje “Blue Morn” is een autobiografisch verhaal over hoe Kenn Morr de gebeurtenissen van 9/11 persoonlijk ervaren heeft. Hij bevond zich op die bewuste dag heel dicht bij Ground Zero en beschrijft in dit liedje hoe zijn vlucht uit New York verliep en wat zijn gevoelens bij dit weerzinwekkende gebeuren waren. Muzikaal verloopt de reis doorheen deze cd ook over diverse paden. Zo komen vleugjes reggae (“Get Back”), rock (“Let’s Take Tonight”), country (“River Song”) en Keltische invloeden aan bod en toont Kenn Morr ons dat hij een artiest met vele talenten is en in al die verschillende stijlen moeiteloos weet stand te houden. “Move On” is een heel mooie en aangename plaat van een man wiens stem mij steeds doet denken aan Elliott Murphy in zijn ballads. En dat is toch al een hele grote mijnheer, niet? “Everything Will Be Fine” zingt Kenn Morr in het laatste liedje op deze cd. Daar zijn wij inmiddels voor hem toch van overtuigd.
(valsam)
www.rootstime.be

Kenn Morr - "Move On" (Rootstime Magazine)

2008-06-05T11:31:00.000-07:00

An enclosed flyer asks the following question: What does Kenn Morr have in common with Bob Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel, Leonard Cohen, The Byrds, Johnny Cash, Louis Armstrong, Jimmy Cliff, Carl Perkins & Willy Nelson? Care to take a guess? Well, here is the answer: their records were all produced at one time or another by the legendary sound engineer Bob Johnston. Surprised by this answer? You shouldn’t be, because Bob Johnston pulled together the best of Kenn Morr and put it all together on his 2004 album “New Moon Rising. The originality of the songwriter’s talent, the melodious, easy to pick up flow of the music, and his musical, maniacal insistence on perfection are more than evident in this work. That album was the big break-through for the Connecticut native Kenn Morr, who brought out a new album in 2006 under the title of “Coming Home,” and who has now sent us his most recent CD, “Move On.”

This time, he produced the album himself, and gave it a fuller sound by adding bigger instrumentals, including piano, mandolin, violin, lap steel, harmonica, and the subtle use of percussion. He attempted and achieved strong vocal support in three of the cuts: Rex Fowler sings with him in “Don’t Turn Around”, and the unique voice of Annie Golden is highlighted proudly in “Still Need Your Need” (an absolute high point of this record) and in “Girl With the Auburn Hair”. This little lady will live forever in our memory thanks to the song “Tell Me Your Plans” that she brought onto the hit lists in 1978 with The Shirts, even if that was 30 years ago. That performance resulted in her cameo appearance in “Hair,” both the musical and the movie.
But, we really want to talk about Kenn Morr and his new CD “Move On.” This work contains 12 good songs that he wrote himself, which each in its own right demonstrates his captivating vocal talent. After listening to most of these songs a few times, you can start to hum along with them. The songs have an intimate feel, and contain honest lyrics inspired by actual events. The title track “Move On” is a musical letter to a friend, advising him to forget the sad past, and to optimistically look ahead to the future. The same theme shows up again in the song “Don’t Turn Around.” The song “Blue Morn” is an autobiographical story about how Kenn Morr personally experienced the events of 9/11. On that day, he was near Ground Zero, and uses this song to describe his escape from New York and what his feelings were on that terrible day. Musically, the travels reflected in this CD take many paths. There are hints of reggae (“Get Back”), rock (“Let’s Take Tonight”), country (“River Song”), as well as Celtic influences. Kenn Morr shows us that he is an artist with many talents, and effortlessly holds his own across all those styles.
“Move On” is a very pretty and enjoyable album from a man whose voice reminds me of Elliott Murphy singing ballads. And Murphy certainly is one of the best, isn’t he? Kenn Morr’s final song on the CD is “Everything Will Be Fine.” We are convinced this is true for him.
(Valsam) www.rootstime.be
Translated by S. Moskey

New CD From Colebrook's Morr

2008-06-05T11:28:00.001-07:00

By Jack Coraggio- Litchfield County Times

The sound of singer/guitarist Kenn Morr’s recently released album, “Move On,” is very much a reflection of his life in rural Colebrook – nice and mellow.
Certainly, the album’s relaxing Americana folk nature is prevalent throughout the 12 tracks, and is easily distinguishable upon even the first listen. Well aware of the gentle approach “Move On,” his sixth album overall, takes, Mr. Morr said he “warned people this will be the mellowest of the bunch.”
But he just couldn’t help it, as that’s how the tunes spoke to him. Apparently, he prefers not to take a formulaic approach to songwriting, as his creative process allows, “the songs told me how they wanted to sound.”
Of course, it is hard not to keep a melodious tone when one’s four-piece band utilizes such delicate instruments as the mandolin, the violin and the stand-up bass. But the heartfelt sound also stems from his take on the pastoral Litchfield County atmosphere.
So for a man who moved from the hustle-and-bustle of Long Island, NY, to the woods of Northwest Connecticut in 2000, creating a soft, folksy record just came natural, as did acclimating himself to the new environment.
“I love New York City like nothing else, but Colebrook is the greatest place in the world,” commented Mr. Morr. “I asked my brother, who lives in Connecticut, how long it would take for me to adjust, and he told me ‘about 30 seconds.’ I think it took me about 25 seconds.”
It didn’t hurt that he was able to record the whole album in his home’s own recording studio, where the area’s rural aesthetic creeps right up to the door. This is actually the first entire album he produced in his home studio, which he finished building about a year ago. His previous albums were created at least in part in Nashville, Tenn., and one with the help of legendary producer Bob Johnston, who worked with such greats as Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash and Carl Perkins.
“Working with one of the greatest producers who ever lived gave me the knowledge and confidence to produce my own,” Mr. Morr said.
So even though this album was mastered in Tennessee, it is fair to assume that having such creative control over his work afforded Mr. Morr the chance to get the folk sound just as he wanted it. But mellow isn’t the only reoccurring theme.
Within the lyrics, one finds a certain message of delivery and redemption, as is evident in the title “Move On.”
“It may take a few listens to notice, but the album is about moving on and change,” said Mr. Morr, who noted that he had many personal obstacles he had to overcome in recent years. “As I was going through this metamorphosis, I began to notice people close to me going through many of [the same things.] This is about counseling and change. Things happen and the challenge is to believe in yourself, because it is all part of the struggle.”
The chorus to “Don’t Turn Around,” the album’s fourth track, speaks to this odyssey.
“Hey, there’s one thing that will slow you down/ If you find yourself losing ground/ Hold strong, don’t turn around/ Don’t turn around.”
It should be noted, there is one song that acts as the exception to this rule. The eighth track, “Blue Morn,” reveals Mr. Morr’s personal Sept. 11 experience, being just five blocks from the crumbling towers on that fateful blue morn. Then again, whether he realizes it or not, finally articulating that horrific experience may also fall under the “counseling” category.
Now, when it comes to influences, Mr. Morr doesn’t readily compare himself to any one contemporary artist. But he does dedicate the album, at least in part, to the memory of Dan Fogelberg, a well-known singer/songwriter who penned the holiday staple “Same Old Lang Syne,” and somewhat ironically, died shortly before last Christmas.
“Nothing had as profound effect on me as when I found out Dan Fogelberg died,” said Mr. Morr, whose own father passed away when he was just an infant. “He was a major influence on me, and I could not believe how much his death upset me.”
Of course, he also dedicates “Move On” to his wife, Jackie, and their two adolescent sons, Nolan and James.
Next on the agenda, the unsigned folk rocker plans to plug his new album through a grassroots campaign. Though his album is available on iTunes, he will be performing at various venues throughout the Northeast.
His CD release party will be at the 1050 Lounge in New York City at 9 p.m. on Friday, May 16. People may visit his Web site, kennmorr.com, for further tour dates in the area.

Kenn Morr - "Move On" by "Lady" Jane Rushmore, Are U on Something.com

2008-04-14T07:31:00.000-07:00

Kenn Morr, the insightful troubadour from Connecticut, is back with the forth collection of home-spun melodies called "Move On."

This time out he has created an easy rollin', yet provocative tapestry that offers a lot of advice in the form of life lessons learned along the road. Morr's whispering, grainy vocals shout sincerity, nevertheless the lyrics will get you to thinking. Take the title cut "Move On" where he sings, "Gotta get yourself back," but then advises to "move on." This paradoxical tune, as with all the rest, begs to be listened to several times.

As always with Morr's projects there is some fine playing too – pleasant piano-violin jam in the middle of "Make You Mine," tasty and subdued jazz piano opening with a fine harmonica blend on "Blue Morn," etc. The music covers you like a cozy blanket in a tent near the campfire.

A standout track is "Once More." In the opening line the singer lies, saying he's "Got no words to say right now," then proceeds to lay down 19 lines and a chorus worth of words including some of the finest on the CD: "When you're running low on love you know its hard to pay the price."

If you are already a Kenn Morr fan you won't be disappointed with his current offering, and if you are new to his music, the latest work is a fine place to start. To purchase a copy go to www.kennmorr.com

Kenn Morr- "Move On" by Peter D. George, Northeast Sounds

2008-04-14T07:28:00.000-07:00

“Move On,” Kenn Morr’s fourth CD release, finds the Long Island-bred, rural Connecticut-transplanted singer-songwriter and his tight trio fashioning an especially intimate song cycle. Seldom do you hear music so reflective and detailedso honest, and once you’ve heard the album a time or two, you’ll have a tough time getting the memorable tunes out of your head.

Morr composed all the songs, most of which speak of very personal experience, from the opening title track, “Move On”—a musical letter counseling a friend to forget the broken past and embrace the future—to “Blue Morn,” an autobiographical account of the events of 9/11/01. Morr was near Ground Zero at the time and describes—in a moving, yet surprisingly tuneful way—the rush to leave the city where the people “were upside down” and “order wasn’t anywhere to be found.”

The CD takes the listener on a journey from grown-up rock through reggae, country, and Celtic flavors. Morr’s distinctively deep voice is the focus, and the singer also handles guitar, mandolin, lap steel, and harmonica. Dan Hocott supplies harmony vocals and deep bass grooves (stand-up, acoustic, and electric), while Bob Gaspar adds just the right colors on drums and an interesting assortment of percussion. Karen Nolan decorates a few of the songs with seductive violin.

Rex Fowler, voice of veteran folk ‘n’ roll heroes Aztec Two-Step, contributes a memorable vocal to “Don’t Turn Around”another song about embracing the present and future and not dwelling in the past. Romance is a significant part of this song cycle, especially in the two guest appearances by stage, screen, and recording star Annie Golden, who shares the vocal on “Still Need You Near” (a highlight) and adds a haunting, operatic refrain to “Girl With the Auburn Hair.”

“Get Back” is a sharp reggae number about returning to one’s core values. “Late Summer Skies” is one of the most evocative accounts of that catch-in-the-throat time of year that you’re likely to hear, riding lush waves of insects, ocean, and wind.

Put on this beautifully textured collection of songs after a long day—accompanied, perhaps, by “a smoke and a glass of red wine”—“get lost in the music like leaves in the wind” and “know everything will be fine,” as the beautiful concluding song suggests.

“Move On” is a richly rewarding CD to which you’ll look forward to returning.

Coming Home – Kenn Morr

2008-04-07T08:15:00.000-07:00

CD Review by Dr. Philip Lombard

On Kenn Morr's first two collections he teamed with talented producers, but on "Coming Home," this multi-talented artist decided to produce the album himself. The result has a lucid honesty that is refreshing and long overdue.

Morr has created an atmospheric CD about a man's search for himself. It's a collection of personal songs; not just about the singer/songwriter, but also about us all. This album asks many questions which lead to the ultimate question: What is our purpose? It is a musical journey well worth taking. In the end, the artist discovers he's "got no time for worry/too much time is dead" and "the morning sky reminds him that God is out there somewhere." How do you put Kenn Morr's distinct vocal sound into words? Well, think of an American Donovan blended with the soft whispering sound of Don Williams.

The album kicks off with the title track "Coming Home," which opens with a haunting guitar and lovely flowing female harmonies. It's reminiscent of a mid-70's laid-back Eric Clapton tune with a lyric that includes "When we say goodbye I die inside." It doesn't get any more honest than that. "Mesa Moon" sneaks up on you and is complex in it's simplicity. This tune features a very subtle Johnny Cash-type rhythm, which drives the guitar and violin. It's the most country flavored tune on the CD and is the gem of the album. It finds the troubadour out on the endless highway once again and features perfect harmonies that drift over Karen Nolan's violin. Listen to the ladies nail the word…My - i - ind …at the end before the picking guitar fade. If this is any indication of Mr. Morr's ability to write a great country song, then let's hope that someday he'll record a complete album of country music.  Another prize is "In The Name of Rock And Roll." A great title for a wonderful tune that sounds like Dire Straits Unplugged. It features the weaved sound of organ, drums and violin over and under Morr's whispering, talking blues vocal. It's a tune for anyone who's ever plugged in an electric guitar in an attempt to keep rock and roll alive. I'd love to hear Bob Dylan cut this great example of Morr's unique writing.  On "Baby It's Me," the musical mood is elevated. It's the next morning, our hero wakes up and begins to pick up the pieces but realizes that it all begins and ends with him. The melody is gentle on the mind and weaves it's way into your consciousness. The line "Down and out ain't where I want to be" says it all.  On "Cold Winds," Morr's production technique shines through with the crisp sound of violin and guitar that ease you into a flowing feel of the old west – the story of a man who "Got the word and it wasn't good." It's a tune about traveling on with a broken spirit and features a tasty harmonica break plus harmony vocals shared with Rex Fowler.  There are six additional tracks that make up a sensitive reflective CD that is a gift to the ears and senses in these troubling times.

Warm Welcome in Colebrook

2008-04-07T08:12:00.000-07:00

By: Laurel Tuohy

04/27/2006

Many urbanites relocate to Litchfield County and never feel truly comfortable with the different pace of life the region offers, nor are they fully accepted by the locals. Musician Kenn Morr, who writes, plays guitar and sings for The Kenn Morr Band, is not one of those stories. Though he's lived in Colebrook only five years, and had no previous ties to the area, he has reached a level of small-town comfort and familiarity that few achieve.

He ingratiated himself with the locals and the local scenery early on, though not intentionally. "I'm a very private person, so it's a funny thing. The reason I moved here was for seclusion and privacy. I love people, but I love my own time and space too. Now, with two kids, I get even less of that," said the stay-at-home dad to two sons.

"The people here are so nice that all you have to do is be yourself. Nobody comes walking up to my door like, 'Hey, Kenn, wanna hang out?Everyone has given me space, and my interactions have gone smoothly with them because they are such good people. It's simp

He became better known locally through his "Moonlight Meadow Song," the closing number on his second CD, "New Moon Rising," and the first disc he wrote after relocating. "I had just written it. It was almost finished and I got word that Ed Case, a guy that lived up the street, had died. I probably only ever spoke to him twice, but I used to drive by his house and he had this beautiful vegetable garden and he'd be sitting out there and as you passed he'd raise a hand to you. I built up a sort of association with him in my mind.

"He was such a part of this great Colebrook scenery and I thought to myself, 'I want to talk to him,'" Mr. Morr continued. "One day he drove up and I was outside. He called me over and gave me this big brown bag full of the most unbelievable vegetables you've ever seen in your life. It's not like I had stopped and talked to this guy 20 times or anything. He gave me the vegetables, and I later found out that it was his sort of way of anointing you and saying that you are accepted. Like, 'When Ed lets you into his circle and gives you the vegetables, you're in.' That day, he said to me, 'You should come and hang out with me one day on my porch, it's cool under there.' I said, 'Ed, thanks so much, I'm going to do that' and I didn't. Then shortly after that, he died."

"So, I had just about finished this song and I listened to it and I thought, 'It's too short. I want to go with another verse' and I just came out with 'Old Ed ain't livin down the road anymore/Last night they called his number up to heaven's sweet door/He was the last of the old folks, last of a breed/Now there's no one around to grow us the food that we need.' I swear it just came out like that. I was glad my tape was running and I could play it back and write it down. It was his final gift to me," Mr. Morr explained.

"I told his son that his dad gave me a verse, that he inspired part of a song, and then the story spread that 'Kenn wrote something about Ed Case' and I thought that was great, especially if it made people happy. His wife wrote me this sweet note that said, 'Thank you for memorializing my Edward forever,'" said Mr. Morr, who has become part of Colebrook and can often be found on his own porch playing with his sons.

Entry into this Colebrook club and small town landscape was something Mr. Morr hoped for when relocating. The photos from his second and third album covers were shot in and around town.

Though he's had no shortage of song ideas since moving, he's had little time to write, as a result of being home as a dad. "My wife, Jackie, and I said when we wanted to start a family, 'Let's do this right and have one parent at home and raise these kids the right way.'" So they did, and Mr. Morr gave up his day job as an insurance adjustor, though he occasionally does insurance work from home.

"It's different, literally, in every way," said the musician of Colebrook in comparison to his old home in the New York City suburbs. "The people, the way it looks, the way it is. I like living across from a roaring brook that is like a river most seasons. Where I used to live, the houses are literally on top of each other and you walk out your front door and just see neighbors everywhere. Space is an important thing for me mentally. I'm surrounded by trees here, and the people are literally second to none. My 2-year-old, Nolan, just had an emergency appendectomy and people came crawling out of the woodwork, it was like being dropped into the middle of a family. A lot of people that I don't even know that well came by. They dropped off meals and toys, it was great," he said.

When asked if he ever feels under-stimulated or isolated by the remote location, he said, "No. I think I was over stimulated for many years. I haven't had a writer's block yet," he said. Though Mr. Morr hasn't seen many changes to his creative process since moving to Colebrook, he does feel his writing has improved and that he has "found his voice," a state he attributes as much to growing up and becoming a father as to relocating.

Mr. Morr's brand of American acoustic rock calls to mind Bob Dylan, for the low persuasive tones, and John Mellencamp, for the heartfelt quality and accessibility. The songs, which address universal themes such as love, fear, cautiousness and curiosity, speak to everyone. Even Mr. Morr's new songs seem like they've existed forever; they have the time transcending quality often embodied by the organic.

With his forthcoming third CD, "Coming Home," Mr. Morr put to use the lessons he learned by the side of his former producer, the legendary Bob Johnston, and produced the record at home in his wood-paneled studio.

Mr. Morr gives much credit for his progression as a musician to Mr. Johnston. The famed Nashville-based producer has produced records by Bob Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel, Leonard Cohen, The Byrds, Johnny Cash, Louis Armstrong, Jimmy Cliff, Carl Perkins and Willie Nelson, among others. The artists he has worked with range in style from pop to folk and rockabilly to reggae.

Though he was in his 70s when Mr. Morr approached him a few years ago, and from a completely different generation with a different outlook on the world, "he helped me to find my voice," said Mr. Morr.

His "voice," which translates to style in this case, has a dreamy, simple quality that harkens back to a time when American music and life was less complicated, yet just as strongly felt.

"New Moon Rising," the Bob Johnston-produced disc, was completed in 2003, but never marketed or released in a major fashion, though it is available online and at two local stores. "I didn't plan on having another son. He was born and that's what I've dedicated these past two years to. So this is still a brand new record to the public," he said. The guitarist has recently secured a promotional company to get "New Moon" wider release, radio play and perhaps a tour. Listen for tracks off of the CD to air on local radio stations starting April 20.

Though "Coming Home" is also completed and will be sold at Mr. Morr's upcoming gigs, it won't go into wide release for at least six months.

The Kenn Morr Band's CDs are available at www.amazon.com, www.towerrecords.com, and locally at Norfolk's Treasures and the Colebrook Country Store. They can also he ordered my mail. Send $15 per disc to Kenn Morr, P.O. Box 50, Colebrook, CT 06021 and specify whether you want the debut "Today," "New Moon Rising," or the soon-to-be released "Coming Home."

Mr. Morr will have an album release concert at Norfolk's Greenwoods Café June 9 at 8 p.m. Call 860-379-9521 or log onto www.kennmorr.com for more information.