San Francisco-based singer-songwriter Patrick Ames is known for his relevant and pointed takes on social and political issues and this is at the fore, and his forte, on his new Jon Ireson-produced Liveness EP.
The DIY troubadour crafts music that is stripped of any excess, eschewing bells ‘n’ whistles for the spare and direct sound of his guitar and vocals – and candid lyrics.
Ames has recently released videos for two tracks off the record; “Bang Bang Bang” and “Want to Believe.”
“Bang Bang Bang” is a lyrical ear-opener where Ames ruefully comments, “Hate is now endorsed by politicians” (including, tragically, by the current occupier of the White House in the US).
The track shuffles by with a laid-back pace and Ames’ earnest delivery (and backing vocals from Chana Matthews and Mikaila Matthews), but his on-target lyrics hit hard at the destruction of America under the current president, his administration, and his followers.
In the video Ames is only seen as a shadow against a white screen, but his expressive gestures and sharp and relevant lyrics are indelible.
Keep up with Patrick Ames
https://patrickames.com/
Written by: Jen Dan
