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Our returning champion…well, let’s just say that Austin-based producer/songwriter Gurf Morlix has been on this podcast more than a couple of times. And I’m always thrilled to hear about his latest project and get his thoughts on music, the industry, or whatever tangent we head down to when we get together. I’ve had the good fortune to chat with Gurf in “Songs and Stories” episodes #135, #147 (along with Blackie Farrell), and #169. Basically the Gurf finishes a new record every couple of years. When he heads out west, we get together and talk. Always inspiring and always interesting.
His latest is “Impossible Blue,” named after a newly discovered shade of blue (I’m not kidding) that winds its way through one of the songs on the project in addition to becoming another memorable Gurf Morlix record cover. Gurf takes a lot of care and puts a lot of thought into these things, which we discussed in this interview.
Gurf has been well known as a producer for years. He was Lucinda William’s bandleader leader and helmed her first few records, then moving one to produce five projects with Slaid Cleaves and other steller songwriters such as Robert Earl Keen and Mary Gauthier.
These days he still produces – check out his work with newcomer Grant Peeples. But it’s his songwriting and these amazing solo projects (ten of them at last count) that really give you insight into what an amazing artist he is. “Impossible Blue” has the signature Gurf sounds – he plays everything but drums and keyboards on this latest (and all his recent) projects. This episode includes the CD track “My Heart Keeps Pounding” and a live, solo take on the CD’s opening tune, “Turpentine”. Fun fact: In the interview, you’ll learn how turpentine is made.
Note: Gurf and met over brunch at my pal Ron’s house. (Ron put Gurf up for the night before his Soquel CA show.) Thanks again for breakfast, Ron. 😉