"Kissing Tiny Flowers: Michael Wagner" from JezebelMusic.com
The ukulele is usually an instrument that renders songs stripped of their frills, arrangements slipped off to reveal the structure underneath. But there's always someone willing to think outside the box with the instrument. Michael Wagner manages to find a lot of room for maneuvering within the limited framework of his chosen instrument. With a mixture of taps, slaps, and traditional strumming, he comes across like the Les Claypool of the uke. On second thought, that title is a bit misleading, since his songwriting and earnestness recall the sweetest moments of Led Zeppelin III and old Uncle Tupelo records. But between the lovely tunes and the wow factor, you're bound to find something to love. - Ben Krieger, Jezebel Music
The ukulele is usually an instrument that renders songs stripped of their frills, arrangements slipped off to reveal the structure underneath. But there's always someone willing to think outside the box with the instrument. Michael Wagner manages to find a lot of room for maneuvering within the limited framework of his chosen instrument. With a mixture of taps, slaps, and traditional strumming, he comes across like the Les Claypool of the uke. On second thought, that title is a bit misleading, since his songwriting and earnestness recall the sweetest moments of Led Zeppelin III and old Uncle Tupelo records. But between the lovely tunes and the wow factor, you're bound to find something to love. - Ben Krieger, Jezebel Music
