Toledo-based singer/songwriter and guitarist Ben Stalets is back with another American, back roads beauty–this super fine cut, “Lady Divine“. Whence last we heard from Ben, he was hitching into town with a wide-eyed grin and the punch drunk poetry of his excellent track, “Lost“. This newest offering begins like a rural lullaby, though, even as the guitar finds it’s way around a sweet melody, there’s a well-worn grit to it. Recorded and produced by members of Jack and the Bear, at their studio of the same name in Monroe MI, and with some of the members making guest appearances on the track, Stalets is also backed, here, by his road band–which finds Will Doremus on bass and Jordan Halsey on drums. While the group sought a minimalistic sound “meant to give a feel of our live shows”, this stripped back track is undeniably warmed by the late afternoon tones of organ, though it’s still the singer’s hard won wisdom and vocal talents that take center stage. Seems “Lady Divine”‘s done quite the number on ol’ Ben, and she’s got him crooning in a whiskied mumble about how “she smiled in the sunshine/and she kisses like the sweet wine”. Yes sir, we’ll take some of that!
You can catch Ben Stalets live this weekend in Toledo, OH at the Ottawa Tavern, as well as on these upcoming tour dates…
Apr 04 Ottawa Tavern Toledo, OH
Apr 12 Bar Matchless Brooklyn, NY
Apr 18 Artomatic (One Lake Erie Center) Toledo, OH
May 03 The Old Miami Detroit, MI
Jun 05 HiFi Indianapolis, IN
Jun 07 O.w.e. Festival Toledo, OH
Jul 09 Darkhorse Brewery Marshall, MI
Aug 14 Muttz Toledo, OH
