Steve Gunn is set to release his Matador Records’ debut, Eyes On The Lines, on June 3rd. Inspired by dreams, the road and trusting the unknown, it’s Gunn’s most explicit ode to the blissful uncertainty of adventure yet. After presenting debut single, “Conditions Wild,” Steve now shares the album’s opening song, “Ancient Jules,” a rock ‘n’ roll number and travel fantasy and of a different sort. Directed by Claes Nordwall, the “Ancient Jules” video stars Gunn on the open road. When motorcycle problems emerge, legendary British folk artist Michael Chapman just happens to save the day. The “Ancient Jules” digital EP is also out today and includes two non-album bonus tracks, “The Handshake” and “The Soloist.”
“Initially an instrumental guitarist, Gunn has really come into his own as a full-band-backed singer, more assured in his soft and leathery tenor. . . Gunn’s found a kindred guitarist in James Elkington; the two toss off a thicket of Richard Lloyd/Tom Verlaine-style interplay that turns into a rigorous workout as ‘Ancient Jules’ folds in feedback, countermelodies and a solo that burns like a cigarette hanging just off the lip.” – NPR Music, “Songs We Love”
“A gifted, innovative guitarist, he evokes the timeless experimentation of someone like John Fahey, and sings like a prairie Lou Reed.” — Q, 4 stars
