Photo courtesy of Ian McConnell
Mack Russell’s new album “Hold Me Back” has arrived. Russell, known to the Furman community as junior math and classical music double major Ian McConnell, starts off his musical career on the right foot with a full yet simple combination of strong vocals and minimal instrumentation that consists of acoustic guitar, drums and bass backing the vocals. In three of the 13 songs, Russell’s vocals are balanced by smooth cello melodies. In two others, electric guitars support the strong vocal rhythms. The album also features fellow musicians Shane Byler on the drums and Michael Poirier on the electric guitar. The album was recorded primarily at Greenville’s Sit-n-Spin Studios.
“Hold Me Back” is an expressive form of Russell’s keen and quirky observations about everyday subjects such as growing up in Virginia, starting and ending relationships, dreaming of future success in the music industry and beyond. As diverse as the subject matter is, so are the musical genres.
“So often, I hear folks say, ‘Oh, I listen to everything!’” said Russell. “Today, the same music fans enjoy country, rock, pop, rap and everything else. I see no reason for songwriters and performers to be any different.”
Russell used a variety of artists for inspiration such as Sam Hunt, OneRepublic, Zac Brown Band, E.L.O, Grace Potter and The Script. “I’m not trying to pander to a cross-genre movement or anything. Instead, I think ‘Hold Me Back’ shows that I’ve been shaped by a lot of musical styles,” he said.
Throughout the album, Russell’s audience can hear the different influences play out.
“Whisper In My Ear” references Russell’s training as a classical musician. “It’s based on the aria ‘La Habanera’ from the Bizet opera ‘Carmen’,” he noted.
Continuing through the album, “The Line” definitely plays to Russell’s country influences in addition to a lively rap in the bridge section.
These songs take the listener on a voyage not only through Russell’s stylistic repertoire, but also through a myriad of life experiences. “When I Wake Up” captures the optimism and happy-go-lucky tune that is the hope for the future of a long-distance relationship. “Willow” and “Rolling River” encourage contemplation as country rhythms allow minds to wander. Additionally, “In My Mind” and “I Don’t Need You Anymore” reflect the contemporary adult lives we live and problems that can arise.
The seriousness of songs playing on life experiences are balanced out by songs such as “Love Me Back,” “For You” and “Dreamin” that carry upbeat pop tunes that can turn anyone’s bad day around. There is even a boy band style song, “Like You Do,” which Russell said “was a fun one to write and it’s really enjoyable to perform as well.”
Russell hopes to continue to write for a wide variety of music styles but admits that his work is constantly changing.
“That’s okay,” he said. “I think musicians should be open to – even embrace – growth and change.” As a 20-year-old songwriter and full-time student, he is certainly on his way.
“Hold Me Back” by Mack Russell will be released on CD, iTunes and Amazon Music Oct. 20. If you would like more information about this emerging songwriter, visit his website at www.mackrussellmusic.com.