…It Only Gets Better From Here
Favorite Gentlemen
By Samantha Parvin
Atlanta continues to build its name in the universal music
scene, and we are able to promote high standards of music because of bands like
the Beggars’ Guild. Do not let the
modest print and graphics of their first full-length album fool you; the
Americana-style musical arrangements and harmonies contained within are well
worth the listen.
The group consists of a classic four-man set, complete with
T.J. Edmond on guitar and singing lead vocals, Gregg Shapiro on bass, Bret
Hartley on lead guitar and vocals, and Jon Chalden on drums. Together they have written catchy, witty and
fun lyrics; and Hartley and Edmond provide crisp guitar riffs, which creates
the quintessential complement to T.J.’s smoky vocals.
The group’s influences are somewhat obvious yet diverse,
ranging from Springsteen to John Cougar Mellencamp, Counting Crows to Sister
Hazel, and even alt-country, Ryan Adams-esque nuances evident in “Wait For
It.” Lyrics reflect traditional blues
subjects, such as life on the road, lost love and the passing of time, and
tracks like “I Tried Hard” allude to the “B-side Blues” arrangements of early
Southern American Blues music.
So if you like Americana music with downright honest lyrics,
solid and crisp instrumentation, and sing-along lyrics, you will love Atlanta’s
The Beggars’ Guild.
The Beggars' Guild play Hard Rock Cafe's Velvet Underground May 15 for their CD release party. Tickets are available here.
