DANCING ABOUT ARCHITECTURE

As far back as the 15th century, the idea of a perfect lifestyle was summed up in the phrase, “Who loves not wine, women and song, remains a fool his whole life long.” Well, I don’t know anything about the women in Mark Adams’s life, but he certainly has the other two covered. As a vineyard-owning musician, he seems to have the important things in life sorted out.

And if the wine he bottles is as great as the music he makes, then it will be the toast of the town. California Bound, his new album, covers a lot of musical ground, yet all the songs, no matter how much they vary from track to track, always feel like perfect traveling companions and always like signature Mark Adams.

If Opener, She Was Crying is a country rock groover opening on a very Bryds-infused riff, and why not, Tongue Tied plays a purer rock card. And whereas Unconditional Love has some cool old-time vibes at its core, Loving You The Way I Do is a gorgeously seductive ballad. The title track is full of swing and swagger, Chasing After Margaritas is a fun dance-stomp, and Wait Until August is a love letter to young romance.

An excellent collection of songs and an album to savour, an album that soothes and seduces, much as I imagine his wine does.

WOKE CHIMP

Immerse yourself in the captivating sounds of California Bound, the latest offering from the Mark Adams Band. Now available across all major streaming platforms, this 37-minute auditory journey spans ten meticulously crafted tracks. Produced in collaboration with industry veteran Tim Bluhm, who has worked with the likes of Jackie Greene and Nicki Bluhm, the album showcases the breadth and depth of Mark Adams’ artistry.

Embark on a sonic voyage that begins with the seamless harmonies and irresistible hooks of She Was Crying before being captivated by the vibrant folk sensibilities of Unconditional Love. As you delve deeper, the title track California Bound offers a layered blend of emotive vocals and stylistic guitar work. The journey culminates in Wait Until August with its atmospheric soundscape, intricate guitar solos, and authentic lyrics.

With impressive production and instrumental finesse, California Bound serves as a testament to Mark Adams’ musical prowess and unique vocal style. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his sound, this album promises an enriching experience that invites multiple listens. Stay connected with Mark Adams on social media for the latest updates on future releases and live performances.

SKOPE MAGAZINE

It follows that Mark Adams stocks his California Bound-titled album with plenty of California-related sounds, whether these be the Byrds-y guitar jangle that appears and then disappears on opener, “She Was Crying,” or some of the more California-esque country music that follows on this satisfying 10-song release. You’ll find sonic pleasure wherever you land on this sometimes state-themed album.

Although Adams opens his album on a few gentle notes, he rocks it up and intentionally stutters during the vocal to the electric guitar-y “Tongue Tide.” Lyrically, this song describes a guy that’s so overwhelmed by the presence of a certain girl, he has trouble even speaking. He mentions how he can write letters expressing how he feels without much trouble, but verbalizing is an extreme challenge whenever this particular girl comes around.

You also must appreciate the self-deprecating sense of humor displayed during “King Of The Hill In Loserville.” Performed over a mostly acoustic arrangement, complete with mocking female backing vocals, this song tells the story of a king – of a sort. Being king of the hill in Loserville is, well, not any king at all. Instead, it’s more about ineptness, instead, and that’s nothing to brag about. Although Adams likes to have fun with his music, he also shows a more serious side now and again. For instance, the two-stepping country of “Unconditional Love” speaks to the importance of unconditional love when it comes to raising children.

If you’re looking for something truly country, just get a load of “Little Old Wine Drinker Me,” which is saturated in steel guitar. It’s also fully saturated in sadness. A sad heart and a liver soaked in liquor are two elements that go together especially well in country songs. Adams sings it like a sad sack who has bellied up to the bar for the long haul. Its sound and subject matter are about as country as country gets. The opposite emotions are expressed through “Loving You The Way I Do.” It takes the outlook of a guy that’s not afraid to ask for help – for most things. The one exception, however, is loving a particular girl. Loving her is something he can handle well all by himself. Adams sings it to a light, clip-clop beat and is a sweet expression of love and devotion.

With “Chasing After Margaritas,” Adams vocalizes over a kind of Tex-Mex groove. Lyrically, he alternates between English and Spanish on this one. It boils down to a border drinking song, and it’s a fun one. The album closes with “Wait Until August.” This one is another gentler track, much like “December Blue,” toward the album’s beginning. The Mark Adams Band doesn’t sing a whole lot of softies. However, in these few instances where the act tamps the sound down considerably, this group is just as appealing.

California is a state with a rich musical tradition. It’s true the studios in Los Angeles are famous for producing some of the world’s biggest pop hits. However, Bakersfield and even dirty old Los Angeles have each given us plenty of great roots music, from Buck Owens, on through to the Blasters. Thus, if the Mark Adams Band is California Bound, it’s most decidedly moving in the right direction.

MUSIC FARMER 5

Golden state sunshine, dreamy coastlines, and vintage vibes course through every strum and harmony in the Mark Adams Band's latest offering, “California Bound”. Listening to this album is akin to a scenic drive down the Pacific Coast Highway, with each track capturing a new breathtaking view.

The album takes off with "She Was Crying", a radiant opener that seamlessly weaves Ventures surf guitar riffs with the soulful harmonies of Mamas and Papas. It's an auditory sunrise, each note unveiling a new day filled with the possibility of adventure. The Mark Adams Band doesn't simply play homage to the past, they manage to inject a fresh perspective, leading listeners into a comforting embrace of nostalgia with vocals that mirror the Eagles’ profound resonance. The harmonies aren't just beautiful—they're a masterclass, evoking not only the Eagles but capturing a universal musical sentiment.

"Tongue Tied" transports you to a retro dancehall, with its Buddy Holly-inspired beat urging listeners to jive and swing. This track would feel right at home in any vintage diner jukebox. Meanwhile, "Unconditional Love" is a delightful fusion of the Everly Brothers’ heart and contemporary folk-rock aesthetic, peppered with sun-soaked harmonies that conjure images of summer love on a California boardwalk. Beatles-esque undertones further elevate the track, making it a sure-fire favorite.

The title track, “California Bound”, embarks on a suspenseful journey, the spy-ish guitar riff setting the stage for a song that is uniquely Californian and universally beloved. The groovy Eagles-inspired rhythm patterns keeps one's head bobbing, effortlessly merging the best of old-school and modern influences.

Concluding the album, “Wait Until August” is a melodic mosaic of The Cure’s ethereal nature, The Black Keys’ grit, and The Beach Boys' iconic coastal sound. As the guitars shimmer and the folksy rhythm takes over, one cannot help but be immersed in Mark Adams’ powerful storytelling. His voice isn't just a medium—it's the fabric of the tales he spins, weaving them with an authenticity that resonates deep within.

Beyond the music, the story of Mark Adams is one of deep-rooted passion. From his vineyards in Paso Robles to his notable history in Los Angeles, Adams has always showcased a distinct flair for blending the traditional with the contemporary. Be it his music on SiriusXM, collaborations with iconic artists, or his connection to California’s Central Coast’s lively music scene, Mark Adams is not just a musician; he's a quintessential coastal Californian artist.

“California Bound” is not just an album; it's a tribute to a state, a legacy, and the timeless beauty of music that bridges generations. Here's raising a glass to the Mark Adams Band and the sonic journey they’ve crafted—a journey that feels like home, no matter where you are.