from an e-mail they sent out, taken off their Yahoo! Groups page after an interview in the studio:
May 14, 2005: San Marcos, TX - San Antonio, Texas-based band, Jim Murray's AntHill Society, completed the instrumental and lead vocal tracks on their second album, Short of the Blues. The 11 song album is scheduled for a mid-August release. There had been some speculation that the album would hit the streets in July but Jim Murray put the rumors to rest during our chat on Saturday.
I was finally allowed inside the Fire Station Studio for a 4 on 1 interview with the band. Although they seemed tired, and aKerrville gig was ahead of them for that evening, the mood was upbeat if not a little jovial.
The common opinion was that the album was far better than they had hoped for and that Producer/Engineer, Gary Hickinbotham, was the lynchpin for the success of the session. Gary responded with a shrug: "You guys are a very good band and all the producing in the world can't replace that." Gary produced a Grammy award winning album for Tish Hinojosa. He has worked with The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Willie Nelson, Dwight Yoakum and many more. According to Jim, Gary took a keen interest in the band and its music from the first day of recording, the previous Monday.
For those who don't know the band members: Jim Murray is Lead Singer, guitarist and primary song writer; Matt Gilmore (number 2) is Lead Guitarist and backing vocalist; Craig Rainey is Drummer and Backing Vocalist; and Jerry Winkler is the Bass man. Jim writes the songs and comes up with the melodies. The band members arrange their own parts and lend their unique style to each song.
Short of the Blues is their second album, following their debut album - Low Life, released in March of 2004. This second album will contain some of Jim Murray's latest creations as well as some tunes familiar to those who have seen them live. Although Jim has kept a tight lid on the surprise 11th cut, I was able to learn the title of the song - although I have not heard it yet. If you readers want to know the song I can be convinced by replies to this posting. (I have my ways of learning whether you guys read this dreck or not.)
By the way, it appears that the entire session was video taped and a DVD documentary will appear shortly after the CD hits the stands. Bobby Rutledge, Road Manager and maniacal fan, did the camera work throughout as well as ponying up a few dollars on meals and beverages for the band. Thanks to Bobby, a great guy and loyal fan.
I don't know about you, but I am about to pee my pants with anticipation of the final album. I am sure many of you feel the same way...don't you?...I mean...you do right? uh...just kidding...hahaha...ahem.
Ambulatorius
By the way, if you want to learn the title of the 11th cut, as mentioned in this article, you'll have to go join their Yahoo! Group, find this post and reply to it.
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