Eddie From Ohio Critical Soundbites

“…quirky acoustic rock…THIS IS ME - The group’s ninth album on its own Virginia Soul label—once again leans heavily on the folk tradition, but this time sounds more electric, more Americana, and even more countrified, thanks to picker/producer Lloyd Maines.” - J. Poet, Paste, February/March 2005.

“…Wells’ sterling voice…clever, lyric-driven songs, textured acoustics and a sound that (melds) elements of folk, rock, bluegrass, Celtic and country. Eddie From Ohio also (has) a charming a gift for harmony.” - Richard Harrington, Washington Post, January 21, 2005.

“…heartfelt and vivid contemporary folk…” - Los Angeles Times, December 2, 2004.

“It's the band's best-sounding studio CD.” - Daniel Gewertz, Boston Herald, December 10, 2004.

“Like most independent bands, (Eddie From Ohio) succeeds because it deserves to, not because the career of some guy in a record label’s marketing department depends on it.” - Jeff Spevak, Democrat & Chronicle (Rochester, NY), February 11, 2005.

“…outstanding…the beauty of this Lloyd Maines-produced collection is found in the raw emotional power that runs throughout.”- Bill Craig, Richmond Times-Dispatch,
December 16, 2004.

“Shimmering vocal harmonies dart between jangling guitars, spry songs and an upbeat earthy vibe that will leave you smiling even if you left your Birkenstocks home.” - Hal Horowitz, Creative Loafing (Atlanta, GA), October 22, 2004.

“Eddie From Ohio may draw listeners, especially those who like rock, with THIS IS ME. This album shows a shift from acoustic-based sound to more of an electric one. Like previous albums, the lyrics and characters the band paints in their songs are engaging. The sound is bolder, varied, full of instrumental textures and vocal harmonies. (Julie Murphy Wells’) voice is just as sweet and powerful as ever.”- Angelique Moon, Soundings (Norfolk, VA), October 13, 2004.

“From its incredible, tight three- and four-part harmonies to its sweet, acoustic folk melodies and nerdy sense of humor, Eddie From Ohio had fans laughing at the jokes and gasping at the group's warm vocals and friendly folk. And the band left you wanting more…Eddie From Ohio was wonderful at The Egg on Friday night.”- Michael Lisi, Albany Times-Union (NY),October 30, 2004 (live review.)

“EFO's lyric-driven folk-rock, quartet harmonies, and urban/tribal rhythms lit up this small town with their world-class style.” - Kathryn Preston, Valley Journal (Carbondale, CO), November 11, 2004 (live review.)

“…showcases the melodic possibilities and superb singing the Eddies have to offer…comforting folk songs and catchy country rock that’s easy, breezy and instantly accessible…a sure-fire crowd pleaser… THIS IS ME is a superb come-on.”
- Lee Zimmernan, Entertainment News & Views (Miami, FL), December 2, 2004.

“Singers Julie Murphy and Robbie Schaefer bob and weave their voices around these countrified folk tunes with such grace and style that you might be led to believe that they've been at this game for a while. Well, guess what. You'd be right. THIS IS ME is the group's seventh studio album, and they show no signs of leaving behind the Midwestern twang of their guitars.” - Jim Ballew, U-Wire, December 16, 2004.

“They're not from Ohio, but with their smooth rock-folk harmonies they've engaged audiences from the Bahamas to Birmingham… Blending humorous lyrics with a unique folk sound, Eddie from Ohio provides songs mixed with ska, jazz and harmony.” - Eric Grossman, Citysearch.com, November 2004.

“For once, it is worth putting all the lyrics on a CD sleeve… (a) review from the website calls them ‘the best band you never heard of.’ With luck, this CD could change that.” - Dave Howell, FMsound.net, December, 2004.

“With intellect, wit and an affinity for reflection on real life endeavors, THIS IS ME serves as both another feather in the CD cap for long-time followers and as a debut record for those to come. - Scott Holter, Amazon.com, January 26, 2005.