Clinton Collins & The Creekboys: Press

Bluefield Daily Telegraph Junebug, the latest CD release by Clinton Collins and The Creekboys, is a powerful compilation of stories set to song by a collection of gifted musicians whose love for the unique pathos born of the heights and depths of life in the Appalachian Mountain region shines through on every song.
Collins recorded the entire CD in his home recording studio in Mercer County, but it has a distinctive sophistication that could only come from the work of an intense artist who sets out with a sound in mind, and works to achieve that exact sound. Of course, it doesn't hurt that the Creekboys includes Randy Fielder, who supplies the drive for the CD with his work on the upright bass and percussion, as well as Dale Elswick, whose incredible guitar work on songs like, The Long Journey Home, pushes the envelope of excellence while remaining rooted in the context of each selection.
"Junebug is my attempt to continue writing about living here in the Appalachian Mountains". Collins said. He said, The Long Journey Home sets the tone for the entire project. "So many times we overlook the obvious beauty and riches of our lives that's around us". he said. We lose our childlike wander as we grow older and forget the things that matter most.
Each song strikes a unique chord that resonates through the entire CD, with songs like Portal of Light tracing Collins autobiographical journey through life as a third generation underground coal miner, who heeds his father's
advice: A breath of fresh air is gonna clear my head. It makes me think of you. Still, in the powerful, Junebug Bride, Collins examines the bittersweet theme of how sorrow, hope, sadness and joy can be entwined in a moment, with music serving as a lilting reminder of Scots-Irish roots of mountain music.
The CD has a lot of surprises including Colby Elswick's excellent claw hammer-style banjo on Junebug on a String, as well as Nicole Walters soulful lead vocals on Sun Is Risin and sharing the leads with Collins on Resurrection Day. Creekboys Fielder and Elswick blend well with Collins, Miranda Fielder and Jessica Elswick on several sides. While some cuts carry a heavy message, there is pure fun in When You Gotta Go. Pastor Bob Bill of the Independent International Fundamental Church of Jesus Christ in Big Bottom gives a special invitation to the Creekboys.
Collins released Junebug in June, and so far, the CD is officially selling like hotcakes, he said. People can learn more about the CD by visiting (www.clintoncollins.com) or can order the CD at (cdbaby.com) (iTunes), according to Collins.

"We receive lots of CDs in the course of a year and the Creek Boy Blues was one that I will listen to over and over. The lyrics are great and the music and voice are top notch. We can't wait to showcase Clinton at our festival."

Three Cds ago, I thought this guy was great! Of course, I had the pleasure of hearing Clinton Collins in person, both on stage with sound reinforcement and around the campfire. His friendly, yet quiet and unassuming manner belie the passion with which he writes and performs his music. His first two CDs, Fragile Little Humans and Everything Is Possible were efforts that included several talented musicians and full instrumentation on many songs. His third release, Creek Boy Blues, comes on the heels of much encouragement to produce an acoustic-based album that highlights Clinton’s smooth guitar work and that distinctive voice of his that brings to this writer’s mind a cross between Don Henley and Kenny Loggins.
But, make no mistake - Clinton Collins is an original. West Virginia-raised, this Appalachian native recalls many experiences from childhood on, writing about them with the voice of reminiscence and reason; sometimes happy, sometimes melancholy.
The opening song is Cross The River, sung with a hand-picked “choir”, and it sets the tone for the rest of the album. Acoustic guitars, fiddle, mandolin, bass and the great harmonies. I like it! Later, you’ll also hear banjo, resonator guitar, tambourine and harmonica - all terrific for augmenting acoustic music.
Black Walnut Stain is arguably the most thought-provoking song. The visuals are intense and clear, and Clinton’s voice leads the way. The title song, Creek Boy Blues, is my favorite, and again, the imagery is wonderful. I can picture a 12-year-old boy, fresh from church in his Sunday best, traipsing through the creek in his “new church shoes”. We really don’t get to choose where we’re born - we just carry that weight like the creek boy blues. Great stuff!
More highlights for me include We’re Watching Home And Garden, the tune chosen as a co-winner in the 2005 Mountain Stage Newsong Festival and Appalachian Way, which won The Next Great West Virginia Song Contest in the same year. Ghost In My Home Town is another favorite of mine. I first heard Clinton play this song at my campsite at Newsong in 2005.
And so, you have two assignments: add Creek Boy Blues to your CD collection, and go out to see Clinton Collins in person.

I missed Clinton Collins and the Creek Boys the first time they played at the Third Street Coffeehouse here in Roanoke, Virginia – and was bombarded with calls and emails from devoted fans asking when they would be back. When they returned in September, I could understand why everyone who hears them loves them! Clinton has a positive, energetic aura that reaches out to the audience. All three guys show great talent on their instruments, in blending their voices, and in connecting with each listener. I bought a CD for myself and have been listening to it over and over again. Everything is there – the great melodies, lyrics, and magic that happen when everything comes together and touches your soul. I’ve already booked them for two more shows (April 25 and October 25, 2008). I’m hooked!”



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I've had the opportunity to get to know Clint and his music over
the last several years at the Mountain Stage NewSong Festivals and
Through his great CDs, "Fragile Little Humans", and "Everything is
Possible"! Clint's music is energetic, optimistic, and spiritualistic! His strong, clear vocals will warm your heart! Clever humor is another category Clint has mastered with his new song, "Home and Garden"! This was recognized by the judges (and the audience) at this Years NewSong Festival as a winner!!! I hope to be able to work with Clint in the future! He is a great guy with a great talent!

Wayne Weikel,
Catawba Records

"Clinton Collins and band always provide the same old thing . . . a collection of songs that captivate, touch your heart, and make you smile - haunting melodies . . . pleas from the heart . . . observations on just how very human we all are . . . .coupled with a humor and stage presence that seems to make the time fly and the show end all too soon; we always look forward to the time when he graces our stage."

V. L. Maddox - Spare 'Oom Coffee House

" At a songwriting festival it's difficult to distinguish yourself from hundreds of other talented singer/songwriters, but that's just what Clinton Collins did at this year's Mountain Stage NewSong Festival. His well crafted songs & acerbic wit along with his clear voice and relaxed & confident stage presence garnered the respect of peers and judges alike. Being chosen as one of the winners of this years contest was well deserved and hopefully a giant step forward towards national recognition."

Ron Sowell

Musical Director - Mountain Stage radio show & NewSong Festival