Chriss Sutherland "Me in a 'Field'" CD $13
Many people might not be directly familiar with the name Chriss Sutherland, but most know Cerberus Shoal, of which Sutherland is a founding member. "Me in a 'Field'" marks his solo debut and shows why Cerberus Shoal is so revered. He's also a current member of Fire on Fire, who will release their debut on Michael Gira's Young God label. But here, Sutherland presents simple, wonderfully crafted songs in their barest form, but backed by the same heart that has made his previous efforts so great.

This collection of songs has been brewing for years, but finally found its way into the light after Sutherland returned from an extended stay in Spain and urging from his friend and compatriant, James Toth AKA Wooden Wand. All of the songs are built around the combination of guitar and voice, though some are enhanced with piano, banjo, etc. Simplicity is often a lost artform in-and-of itself, but this is where Sutherland strives. Listening to him belt out his almost-perfect lyrics reminds me that even though the singer/songwriter realm is overpopulated and generally tired, when it's done right it can be magnificent.

"Me in a 'Field'" is such a welcome entry into the genre that it goes down smooth and sweet. Lyrically, Sutherland is a wizard. His songs are universal. When he sings about those close and important to him, they become the listener's friends and family too. It's music that will appeal to many audiences and cuts across boundaries. At its heart it may be folk music, but Sutherland's offering something that's freer and more exciting.

Packaged in slimline gatefold cardboard jackets from Stumptown Printers with complete lyric sheet.

tracklist:
1. la familia
2. grumblin'
3. fadin' out
4. deseos (audio sample)
5. el calor de la noche
6. people loving people
7. exile from D. st.
8. pérez (audio sample)
9. coyote tonight
10. desde Maine

additional track can be heard HERE

Praise for Sutherland's other projects & works:

"And as the album closes with the jazzily skewed "Taking Out the Enemy", one is left with the impression that perhaps Cerberus Shoal make their best arguments in favor of a tolerant, egoless unity at those times when they all keep their mouths shut and let their playfully audacious music do their talking." - Pitchfork

"It’s just one fine moment out of a disc full of them, a real triumph for all involved and a wonderful addition to the CS catalog." - Dusted

"Nevertheless, The Land We All Believe In is a triumphant epic that I remain humbled by, and anyone interested in good political commentary/satire or surreal theatrics should have a lot to sink their teeth into." - Tiny Mix Tapes