Artist History
Ambitious doesn't even begin to describe the vision of this multi-faceted performer. Like a well-rounded character in literature, New York native and part-time South Florida resident, Griffin Anthony, has become artistically textured in his musical career. Layering profound lyrics and blues-inspired melodies within the framework of his vocals has done little to pigeon-hole him into one specific genre of music; instead, his cross-cultural style can simply be summed up in one word: amazing! A self-taught performer, Griffin, 24, began as a drummer for a childhood band, "The Ripptides," at the age of 12. His fellow bandmates included Gillian Roth, the daughter of legendary guitar player, Arlen Roth, and Anna Menken, the daughter of Academy Award-winning film score composer, Alan Menken. Gillian's untimely death, resulting from an automobile accident, did little to hinder the ambitions of her adolescent bandmates. This would forever have an impact on Griffin's mindset; he went on to study percussion with Princeton University professor, John Arrucci, before becoming acquainted with the guitar at 17, which served as a creative emotional outlet and tribute to the loss of his childhood friend.
Another inspirational experience for Griffin occurred while working backstage at the famous Newport Jazz Festival as a teen. There, he encountered several golden opportunities to assist such legendary performers as Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles and George Benson. When talking with Griffin today, it's evident his adventures at the Festival are deep-seated in the current path of his music.
Griffin's love for a diverse variety of music has given insight to his own unique mixed-genre (jazz, rock, blues and folk) songs -- influences such as Stevie Ray Vaughan, James Taylor, Stevie Wonder and Jimi Hendrix have become agents for his writing process. Through an innovative syncopated rhythmic style of strumming, the melodies and Griffin's persona come together... lyrics structured with conversational verses and wide-open choruses hinging on multiple themes, originating from his early years and trace his steps to the present. Each track combines nostalgia, lust, love, time, trust and personal philosophies, giving listeners a contemplative, thought-provoking experience. Over the years, he's played hundreds of shows throughout New York and Florida and continues to gain an appreciative fan base.
Griffin's latest project, "The Griffin Anthony EP," was recorded at DTM Studios in Miami with the aid of Dan Geary, whose illustrious career with Sony and BMG spans over 20 years. To his credit, Third World, Lauryn Hill and Mary J. Blige are a few of the many recording artists Geary's worked with, as well as having numerous productions hit the Billboard Top 100 list.
With such a rich musical history to draw from, Griffin's passion, determination and raw talent have definitely paved his way on the road to success...
Griffin Anthony Blog
Review of Griffin Anthony's Self-Titled CD by Xavier P. and RadioIndy.com!
| POSTED BY: xavierpersad | POSTED ON: 27 Feb 2008 12:52 PM | ||
Re Griffin Anthony’s self-titled debut EP is a remarkable pop/acoustic collection that radiates amazing musical talent and ingenious songwriting. Griffin’s fast-paced, blues-inspired melodies and acoustic guitar work are simply hypnotic and contagious! Add Griffin’s stunningly persuasive and soulful voice to these melodic arrangements and what do you get? An extremely impressive and enjoyable CD! “Sleepy Sunday” shows off all the brilliant aspects of “The Griffin Anthony EP”: smooth vocals, flowing melodies, groovy instrumentation, and just-right production! Moreover, “If She Only Knew” stands out as particularly memorable and passionate. There’s no mistaking that this debut places Griffin in the major league, right next to some of today's top artists, such as John Mayer and the Dave Matthews Band! -Xavier P. and RadioIndy.comCheck out Griffin Anthony's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites |
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