Nick Dittmeier and the Sawdusters: Companion (Extended Edition)
An album combining Dittmeier’s fantastic song writing capabilities, along with grooving guitar riffs, Companion (Extended Edition) showcases an “A Side” of studio tracks recorded in 2019, while “B Side,” Alive in a Barber Shop in Southern Indiana, boasts The Sawdusters’ talents from a live viewpoint, creating a unique listening experience that encompasses the entire emotion of the sound.
“I really value having a full band to go out and do tour dates, because that's what I would like to see from other songwriters, and I love playing with other musicians. One positive about the shutdown is, we actually got to practice and micromanage things about our sound. We released some video from a live session we did in July and it captures what we were working on. On bass, I have Bob Rutherford and Josh Bradley on drums,” says Dittemeier.
Straight from the first track, “It’s Gonna Break Your Heart,” Dittmeier’s songsmith prowess comes through with a stunning flow and smoothness – with a truthfulness in his voice.
I still think about you baby / Every hour everyday / I’m still trying to kick these cigarettes / Before the baby comes in May
It’s the simple way of connecting simple words and creating an idea that Dittmeier sings with ease.
“Take It Slow” is a seamless track, illustrating the growth/struggle from life and its challenges – always heeding the words of our elders and their experiences, even when we may feel lost in this big world. The lyrics grab your ears and soul, something that Dittmeier hopes to create in his writing process.
“I'm really hook-centered and think everything builds around those choruses. When I'm developing songs, the hook has to be the most important. When I take a break, I have to have it in my head for the day and feel like if it doesn't stick with me, it won’t stick with the listener.”
On the live side of things, one cannot help but love the storytelling that comes with the track “Centralia,” sharing the tale of financing an aging van and the problems that may entail – at the worst time.
There’s a beautiful grittiness to Nick Dittmeier’s newest EP, Companion, and it’s helping to define that sweet Midwest sound. Without question, Companion needs to be rolling through your speakers, just like the tires on an Indiana roadway.
You can find more about Nick Dittmeier and the Sawdusters here: