Co-founder of the acclaimed duo Sons Of Fathers, Paul Cauthen will release his long overdue solo debut My Gospel on October 14th via Lightning Rod Records. Throughout the 11 tracks, Cauthen delivers with a striking baritone that exudes a unique mix of vulnerability with swagger. His performances can resemble a church revival at one moment followed by timeless Western swing into a gut wrenching confessional ballad. One thing My Gospel is not, is easily forgettable.
My Gospel represents an artistic epiphany for Cauthen who hit a figurative rock bottom following his departure from his former group. The next three years proved to be pivotal as Cauthen returned to his hometown of Tyler, Texas and discovered his true voice. He recorded the album at a few legendary American studios (FAME, Modern Electric Recorders) over the course of those years and the result is eclectic yet timeless collection of songs that blend key elements of gospel, folk, country, rock and soul and a whole lot of passion.
On “Still Drivin’” Cauthen pleads for a break as well as preaches survival. The song “Hanging Out On The Line” captures the juxtaposition of sensitivity mixed with confidence, which is one of Cauthen’s most endearing qualities. On the album’s stunning title track “My Gospel” with its’ other-worldly harmonies, he addresses the spiritual need to connect, love and ultimately find your path.
Growing up, Cauthen was first encouraged to sing by his grandfather, a songwriter/gospel song leader who worked with artists including Buddy Holly and Sonny Curtis. Along with his great taste in music, Cauthen’s grandfather introduced him to harmony singing through bi-weekly choir sessions at the Church Of Christ. As a teenager, Cauthen got into more trouble than most, spending time in jail, and later being kicked out of college. In 2011 he co-founded the rowdy Texicana band Sons Of Fathers which was well on their way into making a name for themselves and praised by the press including NPR and Rolling Stone.
My Gospel represents a renewed focus for Cauthen, with all roads leading to up until this point. His rich musical influences and perseverance combined with his life experiences have combined to create an album which satisfies artistically as well as serving a higher purpose, My Gospel.
PAUL CAUTHEN 2016 TOUR DATES
July 12 – Denver, CO – Lost Lake Lounge
July 14 – Bozeman, MT – Live from the Divide
July 15 – Boise, ID – The Olympic
July 17 – Seattle, WA – The Sunset Tavern
July 18 – Portland, OR – Mississippi Studios
July 20 – San Luis Obispo, CA – SLO Brewing Company
July 21– West Hollywood, CA – Viper Room
July 23 – San Bernardino, CA – San Manuel Amphitheater
July 26 – Phoenix, AZ – Valley Bar
July 28 – Alpine, TX – Granada Theatre
August 2 – Nashville, TN – The Basement
August 3 – Memphis, TN – Lafayette’s Music Room
August 4 – Kansas City, MO – The Riot Room
August 5– Oklahoma City, OK – Wormy Dog Saloon