"Christmas Day in Australia is set to go down as a classic"! 

“Christmas Day in Australia is set to go down as a classic." -Camden Monthly

Blind Uncle Harry’s new single “Christmas Day in Australia” is set to go down as a classic.  The song paints a backdrop set on  Christmas Day in Australia but absent of your typical shenanigans. Instead, it is a message from down under, dealing with themes of loss and longing, of new beginnings and what might have been. 

Unlike a lot of similarly conceived concept songs, Christmas Day in Australia never devolves into self-indulgent themes that would only make sense to its composer. Instead, the story of our protagonist is designed around the antithesis of lust, and though there are moments in the album that get slightly off track from the main plot, the audience is never too far from Blind Uncle Harry’s reach. 

We ask a lot of our musicians. We ask them to give us something to make us feel better when nothing will cure our depression. We ask that they serve as good role models for our children and educate them about what it means to feel something beyond what words are capable of expressing.

Music is, for anyone with any sort of depth in their soul, the most treasured art form that we have to share, and for those responsible for channeling it from whatever divine place it must come from, the pressures can become all-consuming. This is the story of “Christmas Day in Australia”, but it’s also the story of the musicians themselves.

https://www.camdenmonthly.com/blind-uncle-harry-releases-new-single-christmas-day-in-australia/?fbclid=IwAR18jiJo_JZt1ArvPt9-tQkOEzKKimvuHCeP2jb4XvRy3D-IWWe2O1HRb-0

wow... what a wonderful review of Christmas Day in Australia 

...even those who are reaching for the stars can still find themselves in the gutter, to totally mis-quote Oscar Wilde, that even when trying to fathom out the mysteries of the universe, a simple thing such as love can still be baffling.

Dave Franklin, Dancing About Architecture Music Blog, December 2020

I love the world that Blind Uncle Harry builds through the music he and his revolving door of musicians create. It reminds me of a wonky, rootsy past, one resurrected from weed, wisdom and wide-eyed wonder, one that combines the most infectious sing-alongs with some deep and meaningful…occasionally deep and meaningless…themes, a bit like the way that Monty Python would bang on about Schopenhauer and then the next moment be hitting each other with fish! It is a place where cosmic country cool is soaked in a hippie hullabaloo and above all, where music is made for all the right reasons. 

But Christmas Day in Australia is also loaded with reflection and melancholia, a message from the other side of the world, dealing with themes of loss and longing, of new beginnings and what might have been, of the demon drink… and being the world of Blind Uncle Harry, there is just enough room for a social side-swipe at those living more glamorous lives. It would be rude not to. 

It’s an interesting change of direction, lyrically anyway, reminding us that even those who are reaching for the stars can still find themselves in the gutter, to totally mis-quote Oscar Wilde, that even when trying to fathom out the mysteries of the universe, a simple thing such as love can still be baffling. Poor Uncle Harry, if it helps, we’ve all been there.

https://dancing-about-architecture.com/christmas-day-in-australia-blind-uncle-harry-reviewed-by-dave-franklin/

"a song that Santa will absolutely love" 

"definitely shows off the chill, bluegrass, hippie-esque formula that [Harry] seems to be known for. This folksy untraditional Christmas song is the perfect heartfelt alternative to the customary holiday classics. The lyrics for “Christmas Day in Australia” are definitely unique, clever, and funny, while also political."

Shari Hirsch, RATINGS GAME MUSIC December 2020

Blind Uncle Harry gifts us with a song that Santa will absolutely love. 

Blind Uncle Harry is a singer/songwriter from Indiana whose stage name is a tribute to his great-uncle Harry who was a blind fiddle player. Harry and his band describe themselves as “hillbilly hippie shreddin’ folk-rock” folks, and this song definitely shows off the chill, bluegrass, hippie-esque formula that he seems to be known for. 

This folksy untraditional Christmas song is the perfect heartfelt alternative to the customary holiday classics. The lyrics for “Christmas Day in Australia” are definitely unique, clever, and funny, while also political (The band briefly touches on issues of economic inequality in the song). This song is worth checking out if you’re looking for something fun and a bit different to end a not particularly cheery year.

https://ratingsgamemusic.com/2020/12/01/christmas-day-in-australia-by-blind-uncle-harry-is-an-alternative-holiday-song/?fbclid=IwAR3c2OuCFnirgdPkCJiEfgAisrmhzLTilf9SthrBrx8oVgpWAATn6CmtYB8

"taps into that wild sensation" 

Blind Uncle Harry taps into that wild sensation with his version of a holiday hit, “Christmas Day In Australia.

Sam Reed, INDIE BAND GURU, December 2020

As someone who spent half a year abroad in Australia I can personally attest that holidays feel weird there. What would normally be a snowy Christmas morning ends up being a 110° day spent BBQing. Blind Uncle Harry taps into that wild sensation with their version of a holiday hit, “Christmas Day In Australia.” 

Blind Uncle Harry is the performing stage name for Bloomington Indiana singer-songwriter Chris ‘Harry’ Doran. He utilizes a rotating arrangement of band members to compliment each hilbilly shreddin’ folk rock number he creates. Known for telling a great tale and usually a damn catchy one, Blind Uncle Harry has pinned down a unique niche for himself. 

“Christmas Day In Australia” proves to be just as unique as good ole Harry himself. You won’t hear about snow or hot chocolate in this Christmas jingle. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Harry paints a picture of a very sweaty, sad day on the beach.

This single certainly won’t get you in the spirit to deck any halls, so if you’re looking for jingle bells I suggest you seek elsewhere. Instead, Blind Uncle Harry has taken a more melancholy approach for this tune. Because let’s face it, not everyone has a great time during the Christmas season and this song is for them. 

Down and defeated from a recent break-up that has tainted the already (apparently very) sweaty day, you can sense the disappointment throughout this track. Vocals are melancholic, Harry’s voice harmonizing agonizingly beautifully with a female vocalist. Despite bright and upbeat guitar, the song does translate the dread for holiday that is apparent throughout the lyrics. 

It’s safe to say that you can never truly know what’s coming next from Blind Uncle Harry, and that’s part of the undeniable charm. Be sure not to miss out on what they come up with next.

https://indiebandguru.com/blind-uncle-harry-christmas-day-in-australia?fbclid=IwAR1ofZWvHEqVqFYGsiknnEPdeSSGnwaLvBD-BSLGnw5rbMcjvHLcB5GYqdc

"slide riff provides the perfect amount of dynamic diversity" 

WOKE CHIMP Featured Single December 2020

Blind Uncle Harry, also known as Chris ‘Henry’ Doran, is a well established artist who comes from Bloomington Indiana. With a plethora of experience in the music industry, Blind Uncle Harry began his music career as a fiddle player before embracing the role of singer/songwriter. Although Blind Uncle Harry receives creative influence from a number of artists, he combines a variety of stylistic elements to form his unique sound. 

To date, Blind Uncle Harry has one album in his online discography: ‘The Gospel According to Blind Uncle Harry’. Some of his most popular tracks from the album include the likes of ‘Indiana’, ‘Sunny Afternoon’, and ‘Long Lonesome Tune’. With more than seven hundred followers on Facebook alone, there is no denying the fact that Blind Uncle Harry has developed a dedicated following of loyal fans.

Our featured single, ‘Christmas Day in Australia’ by Blind Uncle Harry, is out now and available on YouTube! The single lasts four minutes and twenty-eight seconds and sits at a steady 106bpm. The track commences with a twenty-one second instrumental introduction that combines a didgeridoo with an acoustic guitar progression; setting the tone for the instigation of the proceeding verse. 

The vocal color is stylistic and authentic; seamlessly matching the flow of the instrumental accompaniment. The harmonised layering of the second vocal with the main hook adds a depth and richness to the overall sound without detracting from the memorable melody. The subtle inclusion of the slide riff provides the perfect amount of dynamic diversity as it compliments the foundational instrumental layers. 

From the well balanced mix and creative instrumentation, to the authentic vocal performances, fans of Blind Uncle Harry, as well as those who appreciate new and creative music, will definitely want to hear this single. Make sure you follow Blind Uncle Harry on social media to keep up to date with upcoming releases and performances!

https://www.wokechimp.com/blind-uncle-harry-christmas-day-in-australia?fbclid=IwAR1WgwVK96Xnq6ynVY9B94eFnbAaWetPyZTibOQMqkLbnrVaqExjLZ9pQ4o

"beautiful slide guitar track" 

"One of the highlights of [Christmas Day in Australia] is the beautiful slide guitar track. ...reminiscent of classic artists like Johnny & Santo, and it plays along beautifully with the rhythm of the song." Kudos to Nick Harley for his exquisite dobro (not slide guitar) playing.

BANDCAMP DIARIES

December 2020 - It’s that magical time of the year once again! Although they love Christmas just like we do over there in Australia, the landscape is quite different. Forget snowy tops and winter sweaters, and welcome sunny days and walks along the beautiful Pacific shores. Blind Uncle Harry recently came up with a brand new single that highlights the Aussie Christmas spirit in style! 

The song also comes with a matching music video, which perfectly captures the unique feel of the song and style. The track kicks off with a didgeridoo drone, as well as some beautiful percussion. However, the artist dives into a folky arrangement that reminds me of twee music, with some well-matched female vocal harmonies, and some bright acoustic guitars. One of the highlights of the songs is the beautiful slide guitar track. It has a very Hawaiian feel, reminiscent of classic artists like Johnny & Santo, and it plays along beautifully with the rhythm of the song. 

Find out more about Blind Uncle Harry, and do not miss out on Christmas Day in Australia, which is currently available on the web.

https://thebandcampdiaries.com/post/636579022959263744/blind-uncle-harry-presents-christmas-day-in

"biting wit and wise-guy wisdom" 

At a particularly poignant point in [Christmas Day in Australia] Harry subtly brings it back to Christmas when he points out that the rich folk, “got nuthin’ to give.”

Bob Smith, STATIC DIVE December 8 2020

Blind Uncle Harry is the professional name of Bloomington, Indiana singer/songwriter, Chris ‘Harry’ Doran. He specializes in what he calls, “Hillbilly Hippie Shreddin’ Folk Rock.” Harry has made a name for himself writing, recording and especially performing his unique brand of folky and funny social commentary. Sometimes armed with a band and sometimes just with his acoustic guitar and a microphone, Harry has toured all over the United States and Europe. 

As a writer he is known for his biting wit and wiseguy wisdom. With titles like “Hillbilly Hippie Haiku Heaven,” “Uh Oh (Sounds Like Somebody Pissed Off Jesus)” and “It’s All Fucked (Donald Trump is President),” he writes singalong protest comedy songs which somehow manage to be all three of those things at once. Blind Uncle Harry and his ever rotating roster of musicians have been doing their thing since 2013. Earlier this year Harry released his latest full-length album “The Gospel According to Blind Uncle Harry.” 

“Christmas Day In Australia” is a brand new song and video from Blind Uncle Harry. Released just in time for the holiday season on November 19, 2020. Accompanied by a didgeridoo, a couple of guitars and minimal percussion Harry recounts the strange experience of being an American on the other side of the world at Christmas. That is the loose setting for three individual vignettes, each a variation on the theme. First we experience the general strangeness of being on the beach in the summer on Christmas day. In the second verse Harry recounts the lost love which drove him to drink. 

For the final verse the songwriter paints a portrait of economic and social disparity. At a particularly poignant point in the song Harry subtly brings it back to Christmas when he points out that the rich folk, “got nuthin’ to give.” Finally Blind Uncle Harry guides us back to the beach where we watch the fireworks and contemplate all of the above.

Check out “Christmas Day In Australia,” above. And follow the links below to connect with this dynamic writer and performer. Get on his socials and get in the loop on all of his current and future projects.

https://staticdive.com/2020/12/08/blind-uncle-harry/?fbclid=IwAR0ngwJmrsqyeYRywx5Fgc87NzaxMiNHROBTiv-4JQ7TllNo43b1RVKvMo8

"captivates with musical skill and melodic harmony" 

Harry's compositional and musical skills are once again perfectly staged here. ...captivates with musical skill and melodic harmony."

Philipp Gottfried, She-Wolf Music Blog (Germany), December 4 2020

Die Weihnachtszeit hat ihren Einklang gefunden und sämtlicher Restriktionen zum Trotz, versuchen wir das beste aus dieser Zeit zu machen, zumindest die, welche sich aus dieser Kommerzveranstaltung der Scheinheiligkeit machen. Natürlich kommen jetzt auch entsprechend die Weihnachtsnummern wieder auf und ich rede hier nicht nur von dem obligatorisch nervigen Last Christmas von Wham! Denn Abseits, dieses Nummerchens gibt es auch noch weitere Musik, die sich dem Christkind widmen und dabei zumindest im musikalischen Aspekt durchaus Hörbar sind und egal welcher Einstellung zum Weihnachtsfest musikalisch einwandfrei sind. Ein solches Exemplar ist der Song Christmas Day In Austrlia von dem in Illinoise lebenden Folk Rock Musiker Uncle Harry. 

Mit einem Digerido begrüßt uns Uncle Harry zu seinem neusten musikalischen Streich und präsentiert einen leicht Country-lastigen Folk Rock Song, der erneut mit musikalischem Können und Melodic sowie Harmonie besticht. Hauptsächlich aus einem Bassdrum-Beat, welcher die harmonische Melodiefolge des Ensemble aus Gitarrenspuren vorantreibt, ist das Schlagzeug eher minimalistisch gehalten. Die kompositorischen und muiskalischen Fähigkeiten des Uncle Harry werden hier aber wieder einmal perfekt in Szene gesetzt. Mit einer harmonischen und warmen Rhythmusgitarre besteht das Instrumental aus einem treibenden Aspekt, der von den liebevollen Leadgitarren ergänzt wird. Rein vom kompositorischen Aspekt hat Blind Uncle Harry hier wieder eine vernünftige Arbeit geleistet. Nach Weihnachten klingt dieser Titel jedoch nicht unbedingt, wer jetzt eine typische All I Want For Christmas Is You Instrumentierung erwartet, der wird enttäuscht. Eher handelt es sich hier um eine fröhliche und fast sommerliche Gitarrennummer, welche gesanglich von Uncle Harry und seiner bezaubernden Sangespartnerin liebevoll hervorgetragen wird. Produktionstechnisch ist bei Christmas Day In Australia ein Song kreiert worden, der mit Wärme aus den Boxen kommt und fernab von jeder Sterilität seine Wirkung entfaltet. 

Fazit 8 von 10: Hervorragender Weihnachtssong, der eigentlich gar nicht so typisch Weihnachtlich ist und von handgemachter Singer & Songwriter Natur geprägt ist. 

**TRANSLATION VIA GOOGLE** 
The Christmas season has found its harmony and despite all the restrictions, let's try to make the best of this time, at least the ones that make this commercial event of hypocrisy. Of course, the Christmas numbers are coming up again and I'm not just talking about the annoying Last Christmas from Wham! Because apart from this little number, there is also other music that is dedicated to the Christ Child and is at least audible in the musical aspect and regardless of the attitude towards Christmas is musically impeccable. One such example is the song Christmas Day In Austrlia by the folk rock musician Uncle Harry, who lives in Illinois. 

Uncle Harry welcomes us with a Digerido to his latest musical prank and presents a slightly country-heavy folk rock song, which once again captivates with musical skill and melodic and harmony. Mainly from a bass drum beat, which drives the ensemble's harmonic melody sequence from guitar tracks, the drums are kept rather minimalist. The compositional and musical skills of Uncle Harry are once again perfectly staged here. With a harmonious and warm rhythm guitar, the instrumental consists of a driving aspect, which is complemented by the loving lead guitars. Purely from the compositional aspect, Blind Uncle Harry has done a decent job here again. However, this title does not sound like Christmas, if you expect a typical All I Want For Christmas Is You instrumentation, you will be disappointed. Rather, it is a happy and almost summery guitar number, which Uncle Harry and his enchanting singing partner lovingly sing. In terms of production, a song was created at Christmas Day In Australia that comes out of the boxes with warmth and unfolds its effect far away from any sterility. 

Conclusion 8 out of 10: Excellent Christmas song, which is actually not that typical for Christmas and is characterized by a handmade singer & songwriter nature

https://shewolf.eu/blind-uncle-harry-singer-songwriter-praesentiert-mit-christmas-day-in-australia-einen-weihnachtssong-der-anderen-art-video/?fbclid=IwAR0Fl52ZArC056Swg2XdUXrLp0EuA9aIiXjPRWPFIrq5IMU-DTkxGEL7NIo

"really enjoyed the overall pleasant but bittersweet feeling this song left me with."  

I really enjoyed the overall pleasant but bittersweet feeling this song left me with. 

WHICHCOAST.COM December 4 2020

Chris “Harry” Doran, known as Blind Uncle Harry, is a singer/songwriter from Bloomington Indiana. Borrowing his performing name from great his uncle Harry, Blind Uncle Harry and his band describe their music as “hillbilly hippie shreddin' folk rock” and they bring a one of a kind experience to each song and live show. Today we take a listen to Blind Uncle Harry’s track, “Christmas Day in Australia”. 

“Christmas Day in Australia” features an airy and natural sounding soundscape, making it a truly pleasant song to listen to; the song opens with a didgeridoo which immediately caught my attention and helped set up the Australia-related themes. The track features male and female vocal harmonies that really take center stage in an attention catching way, powering the song’s heart. Lyrically, “Christmas Day in Australia” describes Christmas in Australia and at the surface, the track seems to be as light and airy as the instrumental, though there are multiple layers at play and the lyrics feature some heavier undertones. I really enjoyed the overall pleasant but bittersweet feeling this song left me with. 

Blind Uncle Harry is the kind of music experience that you are not going to come across every day. Through “Christmas Day in Australia”, we get just one taste of the artistry and musicianship that Chris “Harry” Doran and his band have become known for and if you are anything like me, you will want to hear more music from this project. You can check out Blind Uncle Harry’s website, Facebook and Bandcamp for more information, updates and artist info and as always we have “Christmas Day in Australia” embedded below!

https://www.whichcoast.com/reviews/blind-uncle-harry-christmas-day-in-australia?fbclid=IwAR067vZ4rQvqZ7Ko6CZMtLsgIkxzD3_QIpAVY9LqljGRrxgiF7FUMLmjx_E

"genius leap of melodic bliss" 

"Blind Uncle Harry’s creative charms seem to never end and just in time for holiday cheer, he makes another genius leap of melodic bliss with this Christmas release." 

WARLOCK ASYLUM December 3, 2020

Known for his inventive charm and daring folk-rock revelry, singer and songwriter Chris ‘Harry’ Doran aka Blind Uncle Harry is back with a festive tune titled Christmas Day in Australia. The last time we visited his maestro was during the review of Hillbilly Hippie Haiku Heaven back in April of 2020. Blind Uncle Harry’s creative charms seem to never end and just in time for holiday cheer, he makes another genius leap of melodic bliss with this Christmas release. 

Christmas Day in Australia is not your typical season greeting. The song begins in complete unorthodox Xmas fashion with the brisk sounds of the Australian aboriginal instrument didgeridoo. This certainly sets a not of distinction for what is to follow. Blind Uncle Harry puts together a wonderful array of acoustic and tribal sounds at mid-tempo that breeds a living room experience. The atmosphere is further enhanced by Blind Uncle Harry’s campfire vocals, which certainly adds a tremendous amount of warmth to the production. Not only is Christmas Day In America an inventive effort, but for a wide majority of the population that has been locked away in 2020’s pandemic, it is a way to travel across the world and finally let go of all that is useless. Blind Uncle Harry concludes this holiday salute in the same manner that it began -with the didgeridoo, and that’s how it should be.

https://warlockasyluminternationalnews.com/2020/12/03/christmas-day-in-australia-by-blind-uncle-harry/?fbclid=IwAR29MB1tZQ33z3YkTUTNzc-yNEZ21zkjpB14cypbKaE6KDviILZr8rIniAA

"a heartfelt piece of outsider pop ...vital and vibrant" 

Christmas Day in Australia is "a heartfelt piece of outsider pop ...vital and vibrant. ...a wonderful stream of consciousness, one that becomes nearly bursting with so much passion."                                

-Beach Sloth Music Blog, November 30, 2020

         Blind Uncle Harry delivers a heartfelt piece of outsider pop with the gentle disposition of “Christmas Day in Australia”. Their charms are irresistible for they incorporate a whole slew of different genres into the mix. World music blends with their twee pop inclinations with tremendous ease. A wide variety of instruments too also helps to give the entirety of the piece a communal togetherness one that feels ever so vital and vibrant. Understated vocals further sell the loveliness of the work for it ensures a certain balance. 

               After a short yet playful introduction the track becomes a brilliant bit of energy. Lyrics are carefully chosen for maximum impact. Every single gesture feels considered. The usage of dual vocals feels refreshing for they play off each other’s strengths. Both however possess a certain degree of gentleness that is doubly refreshing. Featuring great love for their surroundings everything works as the guitars hold the groove, making it feel rather tight. Percussion takes a backseat as it all neatly comes together in a wonderful stream of consciousness, one that becomes nearly bursting with so much passion. Little details matter a lot as they describe the day to day in a way that draws from Lambchop’s quiet celebration of the ordinary in an intricate way. 

               With “Christmas Day in Australia” Blind Uncle Harry craft their own unique perspective on the celebration of Christmas in a delightfully off-kilter sort of way.

http://www.beachsloth.com/blind-uncle-harry-christmas-day... 

 

"Might just be the strangest and most brilliant album to pass your way in a long time" DAVE FRANKLIN DANCING ABOUT ARCHITECTURE ALBUM REVIEW 

"I think that the point of us being here is so that we can unify all the broken and conflicting bits of the universe through song, to attract the opposites, to drum up the primal musical forces and make them dance together in one healing ritual. If this is the case... then The Gospel According to Blind Uncle Harry might just be a sort of cosmic hymn sheet. Or it might just be the strangest and most brilliant album to pass your way in a long time."

DANCING ABOUT ARCHITECTURE 
https://dancing-about-architecture.com/2020/05/19/the-gospel-according-to-blind-uncle-harry-blind-uncle-harry-reviewed-by-dave-franklin/ 

It is often the case that you can listen to a release from a forthcoming album and that song acts as a sort of sonic roadmap, a stylistic signpost as to what the fully formed beast is going to be all about. What was great about Hillbilly Hippie Haiku Heaven was that after experiencing its eclectic, energetic, euphoric, philosophical funning and punning you just thought, “well, god only knows what they will get up to next.” It made you, if anything,  less sure as to what to expect from them next yet more determined than ever to be there when it happened. 

The Gospel According to Blind Uncle Harry is a strange blend of blistering, bluegrass musicianship, hippy vibes, strange pseudo-intellectualism, summer of love sentiments and raggedy folk jams. And if all that sounds a bit of a mess then you need to loosen up a bit, you need to dump all of those over-produced pop records and silly TV talent show notions and remember that music is something that happens in the moment, a collision of ideas, the sound of the one part of the universe harmonizing with itself, humanity howling at the moons. 

If I have learnt anything about the meaning of life, and I certainly haven’t, then I think that the point of us being here is so that we can unify all the broken and conflicting bits of the universe through song, to attract the opposites, to drum up the primal musical forces and make them dance together in one healing ritual. If this is the case, and again, it’s a very long shot, then The Gospel According to Blind Uncle Harry might just be a sort of cosmic hymn sheet. 

Or it might just be the strangest and most brilliant album to pass your way in a long time. Either is fine really.

"This Album Does Not Disappoint"! Woke Chimp Blog Album Review 

"Featuring strong bluegrass instrumentation coupled with vocal hooks and harmonies that will embed themselves within your subconscious for hours after a listen, this album does not disappoint."  

"Addressing politically charged topics without reverence, the lyrical content of this album will assuredly appease the hardcore Blind Uncle Harry fans who revel in his poetic rebellion against mainstream expectation."  

"Fans of upbeat bluegrass country music with a twist of anti-establishment, politically charged humour will love Blind Uncle Harry’s new album!"  

WOKE CHIMP  
https://www.wokechimp.com/blind-uncle-harry-hillbilly-hippie-haiku-heaven  

The new single ‘Hillbilly Hippie Haiku Heaven’ by Blind Uncle Harry is OUT NOW and available to stream on all major streaming platforms!  

ABOUT THE ARTIST  
Chris ‘Harry’ Doran, the Bloomington Indiana born country singer-songwriter received his stage name Blind Uncle Harry aptly from his great Uncle Harry who was unsurprisingly, actually blind. He began his music career as a fiddle player; a practice that led to his appreciation for the “power of one man and an instrument”.  

The stylistic specialisation of Blind Uncle Harry’s band is self-defined as “hillbilly hippie shreddin' folk rock”, an appropriate classification given the title of his new single! Known for their boisterous live performances, solos and crowd sing-along moments Blind Uncle Harry is without doubt an artist who entertains.  

With previous hit tracks such as ‘Jesus is Comin in a Rat Turd’, ‘Dopesmokers of the World Unite and Take Over’ and ‘Burn Down the High School’, it isn’t overly surprising to hear that he is the only performer to have ever been banned by the Indiana University Union Board for referring to the venue operator Starbucks as “Starfucks” and insighting the crowd to sing “Burn Down the Kelly School of Business”.  

In a world of political correctness it is refreshing to have an artist unashamedly embrace their authentic and honest ideology without fear of a negative backlash. This powerful attitude coupled with skilful songwriting and performing talent is without doubt what makes Blind Uncle Harry stand out to his fans.  

LATEST RELEASE  
Blind Uncle Harry’s latest album ‘The Gospel According to Blind Uncle Harry’ was released in March of this year. Featuring strong bluegrass instrumentation coupled with vocal hooks and harmonies that will embed themselves within your subconscious for hours after a listen, this album does not disappoint.  

Addressing politically charged topics without reverence, the lyrical content of this album will assuredly appease the hardcore Blind Uncle Harry fans who revel in his poetic rebellion against mainstream expectation.  

Fans of upbeat bluegrass country music with a twist of anti-establishment, politically charged humour will love Blind Uncle Harry’s new album!  

Be sure to follow Blind Uncle Harry on all of his social media platforms to keep up to date with his upcoming live performances and release dates!

HARRY'S INTERVIEW WITH VENTS MAGAZINE 

INTERVIEW: Blind Uncle Harry 

RJ Frometa  May 26, 2020 Artist Interviews Leave a comment

Hi Harry, welcome to VENTS! How have you been? 

Great! Thanks for having me! 

Can you talk to us more about your latest single “Hillbilly Hippie Haiku Heaven”? Did any event in particular inspire you to write this song? 

I grew up in Ft Wayne Indiana, a very conservative place known as the city of churches. From about the age of five I couldn’t wait to get the hell out of there- it’s the “armpit of the christian right” in the song. In contrast Bloomington is an oasis of tolerance and acceptance, and as soon as I moved there to go to college “I knew that I was gonna be all right”. I tried to list everything that the people I grew up with were against, and that I was for while still being funny. 

How was the filming process and experience behind the video? 

It was so much fun! We had a blast! The cue card opening was filmed in an alley just off the square in Bloomington and was (obviously) a take on Dylan’s Subterranean Homesick Blues. The convertible dance sequence was in my beloved beat up old Chrysler Sebring, and most of the other scenes like the kitchen hoedown were at Tecumseh House (my place), aka Blind Uncle Harry HQ. Apart from editing, I didn’t spend anything to make it. 

The single comes off your new album The Gospel According To Blind Uncle Harry – what’s the story behind the title? 

Ha! Great question! I take on a mock preacher persona when I play live, and exhort the crowd to bathe in the redemptive power of rock and roll to cure whatever’s ailing them. It’s very gratifying to have the crowd respond to “Can I get an amen! Can I get a hallelujah!” after I’ve just bashed the shit out of mainstream American values. 

How was the recording and writing process? 

I’m truly blessed to have so many great musicians to work with. We spent a lot of time on the harmonies and vocal hooks. Most of the songs had already been honed playing live, especially the bluegrass tunes, and most of the album was recorded live at Tecumseh House. 

What role does Bloomington play in your music?

I’d written a few songs but was way too insecure to perform live. When I moved back to Bloomington a few years ago, it was like heaven- a musical community that was not only tolerant, welcoming and inclusive, but also openly embraced me. Hillbilly Hippie Haiku Heaven is my love song to Bloomington. 

What aspect of politics and religion did you get to explore on this record? 

Obviously I’m not a fan, to put it mildly, of conservative christian America. And while I really don’t give a shit if I offend someone, I still have an obligation as an artist to get my message across. I do my best to use humor to accomplish that. I’ve gotten some good ol’ boy rednecks to crack up to ‘Uh Oh- Sounds like Somebody Pissed Off Jesus’, and especially ‘Indiana’: “Of all the 50 states/ We’re the one that always rates/ Dumbest fattest and least likely to fornicate”. I’ve also had some threaten to beat the shit out of me. 

Where else did you find the inspiration for the songs and lyrics? 

Well, the love gone wrong songs were alas based on personal experience. Like ‘Emma Lynn’: “She said to please, please take of yourself/ She said to go be beautiful/ But for someone else.” ‘Strip mining My Heart’ was written by my brother Rick, who we lost tragically a few years back. So there’s some heartache and sorrow mixed in there. 

Any plans to hit the road? 

I’m so itching to hit the road! I spent all winter converting a school bus into a touring machine, and am now stuck because of the Covid 19 pandemic. Which is a small price to pay compared to all the people dying. 

What else is happening next in Blind Uncle Harry’s world? 

I’ve got two new finished albums, Courage to Love and Meth Bible Camp road, that we will be releasing over the coming year. Stay tuned! 

https://ventsmagazine.com/2020/05/26/interview-blind-uncle-harry/

"Blurs The Lines Between Blues, Americana, Gospel, and Folk" BANDCAMP DIARIES ALBUM REVIEW 

"Innovative... reminiscent of indie-folk acts such as Bright Eyes or The Tallest Man on Earth."

"blurs the lines between blues, Americana, gospel, and folk"

THE BANDCAMP DIARIES 
https://thebandcampdiaries.com/post/618754211078897664/blind-uncle-harry-presents-the-gospel-according 

Blind Uncle Harry presents: The Gospel According to Blind Uncle Harry 

May 2020 Blind Uncle Harry is back on the scene with a distinctive studio album titled “The Gospel According to Blind Uncle Harry.” The release blurs the lines between blues, Americana, gospel, and folk, going for a diverse approach. This has traditional elements in it, but it also quite innovative, especially when it comes to creating upbeat melodic textures, at times reminiscent of indie-folk acts such as Bright Eyes or The Tallest Man on Earth. 

The beautiful opening track, “Long Lonesome Tune” is actually a great example of what I am talking about. In addition to that, “Sunny Afternoon” is perhaps one of my favorite tracks on the album, due to its care-free arrangement and personal vocals. This track has a 70s vibe, but it also reminds me of some 60s alt-folk music, such as earlier Bob Dylan. “It’s All Fucked” goes for a country blues vibe, and it goes for a earnest, upfront feel! 

Find out more about Blind Uncle Harry, and listen to “The Gospel According to Blind Uncle Harry,” which is currently available on the web. 

https://blinduncleharry.com/ 
https://blinduncleharry.bandcamp.com/ 
https://www.facebook.com/BlindUncleHarry/

"A Delightful Trip" BEACH SLOTH ALBUM REVIEW 

“a delightful trip, one where Blind Uncle Harry draws from past originators of the sound of Americana like John Fahey to the more recent musings of Joanna Newsom."

"A warm communal spirit runs through [the] strangely inspirational “The Gospel According to Blind Uncle Harry”. The ancient rhythms and sounds of the album feel so welcoming as if they had always existed." 


BEACH SLOTH 
http://www.beachsloth.com/blind-uncle-harry-the-gospel-according-to-blind-uncle-harry.html 

A warm communal spirit runs through Blind Uncle Harry’s strangely inspirational “The Gospel According to Blind Uncle Harry”. The ancient rhythms and sounds of the album feel so welcoming as if they had always existed. Group play simply stuns for they all listen to each other giving plenty of space for the sounds to spread. Careful melodies recall a little bit of the weird folk movement in how it celebrated the past by putting its own spin on it. Forgoing the electric works wonders as well for it gives the atmosphere a rustic charm. 

“Long Lonesome Tune” sets the tone for the album featuring a blissful jaunty tempo. Going for a childlike sense of wonder is “Cry Me A Rainbow” whose inclusion of so much color feels profound. On “Song For The Revolution” they offer a different view of the sadness that consumer culture inevitably brings people. The delightful ramshackle of “Savannah Kentuckiana” explores the happiness that comes from truly embracing rural America. Incredible strings dominate the lovely “Strip Mining My Heart”. Quiet with a bit of reflection is “Sunny Afternoon”. Bringing things to a fantastic conclusion is the weirdness of the ode “It’s All Fucked”. 

“The Gospel According to Blind Uncle Harry” proves to be a delightful trip, one where Blind Uncle Harry draws from past originators of the sound of Americana like John Fahey to the more recent musings of Joanna Newsom.

"Harry's Wittiness is a Joy" URBFASH ALBUM REVIEW 

"At a time when even the COVID-19 pandemic is being politicized, the album's sexy bluegrass instrumentation, catchy vocals and sweet harmonies provide some musical mental relief to our nation's chaos." 

"Harry's wittiness is a joy." 

---------- 
URBFASH 
http://www.urbfash.com/2020/05/music-review-gospel-according-to-blind.html 

Singer-Songwriter, Blind Uncle Harry's alt country album, "The Gospel According to Blind Uncle Harry," is quickly gaining rotation on college and community radio stations across the United States. At a time when even the COVID-19 pandemic is being politicized, the album's sexy bluegrass instrumentation, catchy vocals and sweet harmonies provide some musical mental relief to our nation's chaos.  

Harry's wittiness is a joy.  He makes fun of pretty much everything mainstream American -- from the work ethic to all things conservative christian. Yet it still manages to be laugh out loud funny, especially Hillbilly Hippie Haiku Heaven, D Chord Hammer Ditty, Uh Oh (Sounds Like Somebody Pissed Off Jesus), Indiana, and It's All Fucked.   

The Bloomington, Indiana crooner was born Chris 'Harry' Doran.  The name Blind Uncle Harry came from his actual great Uncle Harry, who was indeed blind. He was a fiddle player and sparked a life long appreciation of the power of one man and an instrument. 

You can stream the whole album on Spotify or Bandcamp. 

https://open.spotify.com/album/3agVRiQ4IJ0DaHdjwX7d8z?si=XtKMoFBZRvud752nfbl09g 
https://blinduncleharry.bandcamp.com/album/the-gospel-according-to-blind-uncle-harry 

My favorite track on the album is Hillbilly Hippie Haiku Heaven. The song plays on the strings of classic Americana music, with the finesse of folk, country, blues, and rock. The lyrics are truly American as well, making light of all of the modern partisan hot button issues. Check out the video below... 

 Some call Blind Uncle Harry the "king of the sing along," and the album has plenty of opportunities for you to sing til your quarantined neighbors bang at your door, with live show audience participation favorites Cry Me a Rainbow, Song for the Revolution, and Savannah Kentuckiana included. And of course it wouldn't be Blind Uncle Harry without a healthy dose of twisted love gone wrong songs (Emma Lynn, Long Lonesome Tune, Strip Mining My Heart, Sunny Afternoon) that only he could come up with. The album features instrumentation by Blind Uncle Harry regulars The Wonderhills, but it’s the gorgeous harmonies of Harry, Shelby Jo Everett, and Alexandra Burgan will be what you remember. It was primarily recorded at Tecumseh House studios in Harry's 130 year old house, with mixing and mastering at Bloomington's Blockhouse Studios with the superb Andy Beargie. 

WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA: 
https://blinduncleharry.com/ 
https://blinduncleharry.bandcamp.com/ 
https://www.facebook.com/BlindUncleHarry/

"Hoe-Down Camper Van Beethoven" MUSIC STREET JOURNAL ALBUM REVIEW 

[Savannah Kentuckiana Is] "Hoe-Down Camper Van Beethoven. I love the redneck guitar solo." 

MUSIC STREET JOURNAL 
http://www.musicstreetjournal.com/index_cdreviews_display.cfm?id=107206 

This is a very strange set. Look at the cover to the disc, and scan the titles to the songs. Both of those things really fit this disc. The music here is essentially bluegrass, but it's very tongue-in-cheek and it presents a dichotomy. First, the musicianship is actually strong, but the music (and particularly the vocals) at times have a loose grasp of being on key with each other. Given the skill level conveyed, and the odd humor of many of the lyrics, I have to assume that's artistic choice. Besides, it's not all that unusual for the type of music this is emulating. This is like bluegrass music that seems meant to make fun of bluegrass music, both lyrically and musically. Yet, the talent still shines through. In a lot of ways this more quirky alternative rock music than it is bluegrass in terms of mindset. Yet, the music is all bluegrass, country and folk. However you see this, it's designed for a specific audience, and likely to turn off a lot of other people. It's important to note that there are frequent parental advisories for the lyrics. 

Track by Track Review 

Long Lonesome Tune 
Old school bluegrass is on the menu here. Other than the recording quality, this really feels like something that could have been recorded in the 1920s. There are both male and female voices here, and traditional bluegrass instrumentation guides the music of the piece. 

D Chord Hammer Ditty 
Closer to folk music, this still has a lot of country and bluegrass built into it. I have to say that I'm not a fan of this song, either from a musical or lyrical point of view. I'd consider this the "pass it up" song of the set, but your mileage may vary. 

Cry Me a Rainbow 
The folk concepts are pretty dominant here. The male vocal on the piece calls to mind Bob Dylan a bit. The arrangement has a lot going on. It has a tendency to be a bit too busy in some ways. 

Song For The Revolution 
Bluegrass and folk music merge on this down-home number. This is one of the more successful pieces of the set. 

Uh Oh (Sounds Like Somebody P***ed Off Jesus) 
More than the first minute of this is acapella. Then the whole group join in on the chorus, which is mostly the parenthetical of the title. This cut is really bizarre, but in a good way. It's sure to offend some people. 

Savannah Kentuckiana 
The bluegrass concepts on this are fun. This is one of the stronger pieces here. In some ways I think I'd describe this is a "hoe-down Camper Van Beethoven." I love the redneck guitar solo. 

Hillbilly Hippie Haiku Heaven 
Fast-paced bluegrass is the order of business here. This number is silly, in a good way. It's a fun tune. 

Strip Mining My Heart 
A much mellower piece, this has some intricate instrumental work. It also has a very down-home feeling to it. I particularly like the violin (or should I say "fiddle?") on it. 

Emma Lynn 
Slower moving and less powered up than some of the music here, this is an intriguing cut. It is essentially a ballad. 

Sunny Afternoon 
This number earns a parental advisory. There is an odd silliness to the tune, although it's also rather serious. Folk and bluegrass merge on the number. 

Indiana 
The jus harp is a nice touch. The down-home vibe on this is a lot of fun. I'd consider this piece to be a highlight of the set. This does get a bit of a parental advisory, too. The section on "sundown towns" is likely to offend based on some of the lyrics, but honestly, the tune is sure to offend a lot of people, and it's all meant to make fun of the people who use those terms in real life. 

It's All F***ed 
I guess I don't need to tell you that this track earns a parental advisory, right? This has more of the down-home sound we've come to expect here. The lyrics are actually pretty funny, and a real juxtaposition to the music. There is a little studio chatter at the end of this piece.

CLICK HERE FOR HARRY'S INTERVIEW WITH VENTS MAGAZINE!

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