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Erik Graham - Single Review: I Don’t Know

30 May 2018 // A review by Corinne Rutherford

Erik Graham is a songwriter, musician and record producer. He owns and operates a record label called Headcage out of the heart of West Auckland where he composed, performed, programmed, mixed and mastered his entire upcoming debut album. He is also the founder of Enter Venus, which is described as ‘sinister rock’. Away from that, Erik Graham’s music is less sinister. His latest single release called I don’t Know is a funky blues/rock number which hooked me in immediately.

There was no dramatic build-up on this track, he launches straight into it with a respectably dance worthy number.

I don’t know is a far cry from the Rob Zombie style sound of his creative project Enter Venus, more cheerful less theatrical. An optimistic and upbeat tone accompanies a candid tale of an epic night out on the tiles with a somebody, but not remembering a thing the next day. Dancing on tables was involved, perhaps making this a tale which a few people may relate to. I did hear a touch of darkness start to creep in, but it was all delivered in such a cheerful manner highlighting the versatility of Erik’s music.

I Don't Know shows off what a seasoned and skilful guitarist he is. Vocally his voice has a lovely depth to it, almost soothing - at least on this track.

Further investigation leads me down various avenues to this multi-talented musician, it soon becomes clear that the expat South African is a clever and imaginative song writer.

I look forward to hearing Erik’s debut album Quiet Desperation, which is due for release later in the year.


Review written by Corinne Rutherford

 

About Erik Graham

Erik Graham is a New Zealand based singer, songwriter, musician and record producer. He owns and operates 'Headcage', a record label in the heart of West Auckland. He is best known as the founder, primary musician, and principal songwriter of his self-titled music and Rock group Enter Venus. Erik Graham's music is an eclectic mix of guitar driven Rock and Pop with Blues, classical and Funk elements. His baritone voice has subtle grungy characteristics which he often combines with high falsetto to create his own signature sound.

Erik, a skilled guitar player, had a humble start to the instrument at age 11. His older cousin had to string it for him, but the attempt broke 4 out of 6 strings and ultimately left Erik with a two stringed guitar for several years. "It was good enough to strum with to some Nirvana songs" Erik chuckles. "Aged 16 I begged my parents for a drumkit and on Christmas day I received a guitar shaped present under the tree. Gutted at first, but I haven't looked back since unwrapping it". It was his first Fender Stratocaster, which he still plays today (and has all six strings on it). Being self-taught he describes how he learned to play by listening to and reproducing material by his idols: Jimmy Page (Led Zeppelin), David Gilmour (Pink Floyd) , John Frusciante (Red Hot Chili Peppers) and Billy Corgan (Smashing Pumpkins).

His debut album Quiet Desperation is set for release in late 2018. The EP demonstrates his alternative style to writing music and takes the listener through a journey of varying moods, atmospheres and emotions.

Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Erik Graham

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