With the emotional drive of Blues, the rhythm of Pop, and a strong Americana presence, “Empirical Truth” is a dynamic blend of genres spiced with slide-guitar work from start to finish. The album is defined by Newman’s robust voice, proclaimed as “earthy and endearing,” which he uses to explore different forms of suffering and pleasure. Newman embraces variety as he sings about topics including gun control, wrongful conviction, the joy of love, the pain of loss, and the Dakota Access Pipeline.
The album also praises Newman’s inspiration, with covers of Americana artists that predate “Empirical Truth” such as John Oates’ “Mississippi Mile” and Little Feat’s “Roll Um Easy”. With a lively combination of mandolin, dobro, and electric guitar, “Empirical Truth” delivers a unique Americana sound vibrant with instrumental experimentation.
After its release in 2019, “Empirical Truth” won Best Album at the Long Island Blues Society. In 2019, Mark Newman also competed at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tennessee, proudly representing his home state of New York.
As the latest release in Mark Newman’s musical career, the songs and sounds of “Empirical Truth” were informed by his experiences working alongside notable blues and rock artists. Some notable collaborators include John Oates from Hall & Oates, Jim McCarty from The Yardbirds, Willy DeVille from Mink Deville, Sam The Sham, Bobby Whitlock from Derek and the Dominos, and Sam Moore from Sam & Dave.
“Empirical Truth” is Newman’s third long-form album and comes after his “Walls of Jericho”, which was released in 2010. “Walls of Jericho” also displays Newman’s characteristic intricate guitar work and features sounds ranging from hard rock to light folk.
Between these two albums, Newman notably released the live acoustic-driven EP, “Brussels”. Reminiscent of Eric Clapton’s “Unplugged” album, “Brussels” harnesses raw vocal power and expert guitar work that packs a bluesy punch.
https://open.spotify.com/album/3Y5bQm8AOQPoFGmRyyaPVB