The Cornelius Eady Trio is a unique blend of deep literary sensibilities and a variety of musical backgrounds, originating in New York City. The versatile guitarist Charlie Rauh, known for his intricate and emotive playing on electric and acoustic guitars, as well as electric bass and percussion, Lisa Liu, whose skillful handling of electric and acoustic guitars and keyboards adds layers of depth to the trio’s compositions, and renowned poet and musician Cornelius Eady, whose evocative lyrics and soulful vocals form the heart of the group’s sound.
They started out as a part of the bigger band Rough Magic. The three current members of the Cornelius Eady Trio kept playing together after Rough Magic broke up because they had a similar love of music and storytelling. Their eight-year collaboration has allowed them to hone their craft and create a style that combines folk, folk rock, blues, and funk with a poignant touch of poetry.
Their music has been included at prominent gatherings and occasions like Piccolo Spoleto, The Brooklyn Folk Festival, and The Big Ears Festival. Additionally, they were honored to perform at the New Orleans Poetry Festival, Yale University, and PBS Newshour. One of their most memorable experiences was taking part in the Poets and Writers gala, when Oprah Winfrey and Stacy Abrams introduced our song “Sunshine.” Another important turning point that perfectly captured our strong ties to American music history was recording their EP “706 Union Ave” at the storied Sun Studio in Memphis, TN.
Released on June 22nd, 2024, “Painting (Acoustic)” by the Cornelius Eady Trio is a masterful exploration of acoustic soundscapes that range from the intimate to the politically charged. This eight-track EP is a testament to our growth as a band, featuring the intricate acoustic guitar work of Charlie Rauh, the melodic depth of Lisa Liu’s keyboards and guitars, and my own lyrical and vocal prowess. “Painting (Acoustic)” is a sonic journey that delves into themes of loss, resilience, and social justice. From the serene and emotionally profound “Painting Song” to the politically charged narratives of “Come And Get Your Boy” and “God Will Get The Glory,” each track is a carefully crafted piece of art. This EP aims to evoke a wide range of emotions, providing listeners with a deeply moving acoustic experience.
Painting (Acoustic) EP Track List:
Painting Song:
The Cornelius Eady Trio’s “Painting Song,” from the EP “Painting (Acoustic),” captures the essence of acoustic music with its gentle and lovely flow. A soothing impact that is both agreeable to the ears and soul-piercing is produced by the tranquil soundscapes and warm melodies. A universe of simplicity and emotional depth is revealed to the listener by the warm rhythmic rhythms of the acoustic guitar, which create a peaceful environment from the very first note. The song develops with a sense of peace and beauty thanks to the slow tempo and progressive melody, which further accentuate this serene setting.
As the track progresses, I find myself mesmerized by the soft and gentle vocals of Cornelius Eady. His voice graciously rides atop the mellow soundscape, delivering each lyric with style and perfection. The interplay between the acoustic guitar and the rhythm adds an exotic, chilled feeling that elevates the song to a higher level of emotional resonance. The inclusion of double-tracked backing vocals, both soft and powerful, enhances the overall feel of the track, creating a harmonious blend that is both captivating and deeply moving.
“Painting Song” is a particularly unique song because of the amazing arrangement of lead vocals, backing vocals, acoustic guitar, and rhythm guitar. The song’s essence and emotional power stem from this complex equilibrium. It is delightful to experience the wonderful harmony that is created by the vocals and instrumentation dancing together so delicately. The song’s capacity to move me emotionally as I listen to it strikes me as a profoundly calming musical journey that lasts long after the last note fades.
Come And Take Your Boy:
“Come And Take Your Boy” from the EP “Painting (Acoustic)” by the Cornelius Eady Trio is a profound and captivating piece of music that offers a blissful sonic experience. From the very beginning, I was struck by the song’s cozy feel and slow tempo, which create an intimate atmosphere that invites the listener to reflect deeply. The simplicity and balance of the instrumentation are evident, showcasing the trio’s meticulous care and precision in crafting this track. The song opens with Cornelius Eady’s soft and gentle voice delivering the lyrics in a unique, almost conversational manner, which is soon complemented by the charming strings of the guitar.
The song’s beauty becomes more apparent as it goes along. The increasing rhythm and gradual tempo heighten the emotional effect of the song since they are ideally matched to the lyrical material. Smooth and serene sounds and tunes that evoked a sense of calm without sacrificing vitality were what I found to be appealing. The soundscape is enhanced by the addition of piano chords, which offer a level of refined majesty. Exquisite guitar, piano, and vocal interplay allows each component to blend together harmoniously to form a whole.
What truly captivates me about “Come And Take Your Boy” is the interplay of charm and beauty throughout the track. The careful balance between the acoustic elements and the vocal delivery creates a musical acoustic reverie that is both touching and powerful. This track exemplifies the Cornelius Eady Trio’s ability to blend lyrical depth with musical elegance, offering listeners a deeply moving experience that resonates long after the music has ended.
God Will Get The Glory:
“God Will Get The Glory” from the EP “Painting (Acoustic)” by the Cornelius Eady Trio is an exceptional piece of acoustic music that stands out for its dynamic vocals and instrumental flow. From the very first note, I was drawn into a soundscape that was both rare and ecstatic, creating a magical listening experience from beginning to end. The rhythm and melody of this track are perfectly synchronized, achieving a level of consistency that is truly remarkable. The balance and flow are phenomenal, giving the song a unique groove while maintaining its acoustic essence.
The track opens with sharp and distinctive acoustic guitar strings, setting a groovy tone that immediately captures the listener’s attention. As the song progresses, these guitar strings are complemented by a unique percussive sound that adds an additional layer of groove to the instrumental backdrop. This combination results in a mildly upbeat rhythm that feels both cozy and invigorating. The instrumental marriage between the guitar and percussion serves as the perfect foundation for the vocals to shine. Both the lead and backup vocals are in perfect sync, creating a harmonious interplay that is nothing short of magical. The exotic touch added by this vocal interplay enhances the overall sound and emotional impact of the track.
The remarkable orchestration and steady, groovy flow of “God Will Get The Glory” are what really make the song stand out. The smooth blending of the percussion and acoustic strings produces a catchy and poignant song. The Cornelius Eady Trio’s ability to write songs that are both incredibly emotional and appealing rhythmically is demonstrated on this particular piece. The complex sound layers and strong vocal performance enthralled me as I listened, making “God Will Get The Glory” one of the EP’s highlight tracks.
“Painting (Acoustic)” by the Cornelius Eady Trio is a masterful exploration of acoustic soundscapes, blending heartfelt lyrics with intricate musical arrangements. Each track offers a unique and deeply moving experience, from the serene “Painting Song” to the poignant “Come And Take Your Boy” and the dynamic “God Will Get The Glory.” This EP’s raw, emotional depth and seamless blend of vocals and instrumentation make it a must-listen for fans of acoustic and folk music. I highly recommend “Painting (Acoustic)” to anyone seeking a profound musical journey that touches the soul and resonates long after the final note.
For more information about Cornelius Eady Trio, click on the icons below.
