Ellis Paul returns to Sundilla for the first time in almost 20 years, and it’s such a big deal that we wanted to share! So this will be a collaboration with The Sound Wall in Opelika. The show takes place on Sunday, December 1, at The Sound Wall (605 Ave. B, across the street from Auburn Bank.) Showtime will be 7:00, and admission at the door is $25. A limited number of $20 advance tickets are available at www.sundillamusic.com. Free coffee, tea, water and food will be available, and the audience is invited to bring their favorite food or beverage.
A troubadour, a singer/songwriter, a folky, and a storyteller –all are fair labels for this artist, but they do not quite suffice. However, the tattoo of Woody Guthrie worn proudly on his arm is a good starting place from which to grasp Ellis Paul, for it is from the Woody Guthrie tradition that he hails, and Maine as well. Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, and James Taylor are also listed among his influences, and their spirits seem to occasionally grace his work. With an acoustic guitar in hand, he weaves intimate, provocative, and romantic tales of lives that were obviously witnessed by a most-talented voyeur.
Based in Massachusetts, Paul has been called the quintessential Boston songwriter more than a few times and has garnered the recognition and awards to back up that claim, including a shelf full of Boston Music Awards. Since coming onto the scene in 1993 with his independent debut, “Say Something,” Paul hasn’t slowed or weakened as a performer or a writer. Spending two-thirds of most years on the road has helped him perfect both crafts, with a lot of practice on-stage and a lot of people whose stories he retells in song. In fact, his 1994 album “Stories” proved enchanting enough to secure him a deal with Rounder Records and a national following of dedicated fans.
Many albums have followed; earlier this year “The Storyteller’s Suitcase” became number 20. His songs have also been heard in movies, movies that you just might have seen, such as “Me, Myself and Irene” (starring Jim Carrey), “Shallow Hal (starring Jack Black and Gwyneth Paltrow) and “Hall Pass” (starring Owen Wilson.)
This will be a concert that you don’t want to miss, and getting tickets early is a good idea. Advance tickets are just $20 and are available at www.sundillamusic.com; admission at the door will be $25. And remember that the door belongs to The Sound Wall, 605 Ave. B in Opelika. (Right across the street from Auburn Bank.) Free coffee, tea, water and food will be available, and the audience is welcome to bring their own favorite food or beverage. For more information, go to www.sundillamusic.com.