Music from the Hill: the return of the bluesy-acoustic eco-rock and soul sound of Dewveall

Last February 17th, we had a unique musical group from Houston, via Nashville, perform at our Noon-Time Concert series which is now funded by Independence Bank.  The response from the crowd was very positive, so we knew we had to ask them back for the 2010-2011 season. Fortunately for us, Jonathon and Melanie could fit us into their busy touring schedule.

Jonathon and Melanie, can you tell us a bit about your personal and musical histories?

Both of us grew up in the Houston area. We didn’t meet until college, though. Music was a large part of both of our lives from the very beginning. After we married, it was only natural to “let our powers combine” and form Captain Planet. Uh, sorry, I mean Dewveall. (GO PLANET!)

How did you two get started?

We were staples of the Houston coffee shop scene for several years, paid in coffee and love.

Who has been an influence for you as musicians?

Like most artists, we have many musical influences. Ian Moore is one that stands out to us. He’s a great all-around musician and songwriter. Norah Jones, The Black Crowes, & CCR are some of the more well-known artists on the list.

Last time you performed at Java City, people seemed enchanted by your music. How do you define that sound?

An early phrase we used a lot was “Texas Rock & Soul.” It’s important, to us, to not be one dimensional. We want audiences to have many different reactions: happiness, sadness, laughter and melted faces, of course.

I know you write a lot of your music, where do you get the ideas for your songs?

Song ideas come from many different places. Sometimes our own experiences fuel the process. Other times, I just write fictional stories.

I notice you two are married. Are there any special challenges to travelling and touring as a couple?

Actually, travelling as a couple is rather nice. We have a really good relationship and get along swimmingly. We’ve been doing this for five years now, and we’re not really looking forward to the time when we can’t do this together.

Where do you want to go with your music?

Greece or Hawaii would be nice!

I heard you are donating the profits of your last CD to Living Water International. Tell us about this?

We’re very passionate about helping raise awareness and funds to drill water wells in places where people don’t have access to clean water. Recently, we, and a few other artists, started a movement called “Will Play for Water.” Basically it’s a community of musicians, colleges, and venues who want to help provide water to some of the 884 million people around the world who don’t have a safe source of water.  (www.willplayforwater.com, www.water.cc)

Are you working on a new CD?

Yes, we’re in the process of writing for a new record. We also released a new single earlier in the summer, called “Runaway Sun”. You can find it on iTunes.

Thanks so much! Is there anything else you’d like to add?

We’re looking forward to seeing all of our WKU friends. Can’t wait!

About the author: Jack Montgomery is a librarian, author and associate professor at Western Kentucky University where he handles bookings for musical acts in University Libraries, Java City coffeehouse. Jack has also been a professional musician since 1969 and performs with a celtic quartet called Watersprite. Visit him at MySpace/shadowdancerjack or on Facebook.