From busking in the streets of New Orleans to the glow of the stage lights at the Rose Bowl Tavern, Rory Book’s journey with Rory Book and the Volumes is a tale of redemption, resilience, and the redemptive power of music. A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of witnessing their performance firsthand at Rose Bowl Tavern. Their set was tight, soulful, and even fun, with the band performing great songs and demonstrating incredible stage presence. They weaved in and out of genres effortlessly, and they left an indelible mark on me and the audience alike. I introduced myself to Book, and set up a time to delve into his personal and musical journey.
Book’s early years were a complex tapestry of musical exploration intertwined with the personal upheavals of a childhood split between St. Joseph and Roswell, Georgia. The challenges of navigating a life divided by joint custody were mitigated by his burgeoning love for music; a constant companion and a source of guidance. Book’s persistent request for a guitar since the tender age of five underscores a deep-seated passion that was only satiated when he acquired a pawn shop guitar at thirteen. This modest Ibanez became his outlet, his voice, turning rudimentary “noises” into the foundation of a profound musical journey. This period was not merely about learning chords but about discovering an anchor in the tumultuous sea of his early experiences, setting the stage for a lifelong odyssey in music.
Book’s early musical influences, a diverse tapestry that ranged from the pioneering rock of the Red Hot Chili Peppers to the timeless classics of The Doors, Led Zeppelin, and Pink Floyd, laid a rich foundation for his unique sound. This eclectic mix, introduced by his father and stepdad’s vinyl collection, nurtured an appreciation for a broad spectrum of music during his formative years. This period of discovery was crucial, enabling Book to meld the influences of his youth with his personal experiences, crafting the distinctive sound that defines his music today. His musical tastes evolved, drawing inspiration from a wide array of artists and genres, from the raw blues of BB King and Gatemouth Brown to the soulful melodies of Lloyd Price, whose album he found for a mere two dollars and described as life-changing. This eclectic blend of influences has deeply impacted his current music, creating a sound that is as varied as it is unique.
During Book’s tumultuous 20s, his life was deeply affected by alcoholism, a battle that brought him to the brink of losing everything, including his life. This struggle, which he poignantly described as “spending all my 20s getting in trouble and all my 30s paying for it,” highlighted a period marked by significant challenges. Despite these difficulties, music emerged as a crucial lifeline, providing Book with a sense of purpose and direction. There was a time he told his mother, “All I had left was music.” This acknowledgment underscores music’s profound impact on him, offering solace and a path toward redemption. In a testament to the bonds formed through music, two of his bandmates even signed a document committing to support and watch over him, underscoring the depth of their relationship and shared commitment to his wellbeing. Ultimately, Book’s journey back to the very place he once fled when his previous issues caused tumult and turmoil, was not just a return to a physical location but a symbolic act of making amends, seeking to rebuild his life from the ground up with music as his cornerstone.
Rory Book and the Volumes are more than a band; they are a lifeline, a brotherhood forged not just in music but in shared struggles and triumphs. At the heart of this ensemble are Chad Honeycutt, Paul Frieh, and Kyle Fuoss, each bringing their unique talents and experiences to the mix. Honeycutt, the drummer and one of the founding members alongside Book, is praised for his extensive experience and musical intuition. His ability to lock in the rhythm section and provide a solid foundation is a testament to his seasoned skills and deep understanding of music.
Frieh, handling the bass, contributes not just through his instrument but also through his presence, offering a stabilizing force both on and off stage. His rhythmic synergy with Honeycutt creates a dynamic and powerful backbone for the band’s music. Fuoss, the harmonica player, adds a layer of soulful expressiveness that complements and enhances the group’s sound. Fuoss’s dedication to the craft, evident in his participation in harp clinics and his interactions with blues legends, brings an authentic blues vibe to the band. Together, these individuals do not just play music; they share a commitment to Book’s journey of redemption. This solidarity highlights the depth of their connection and the significance of their music as a force for healing and hope.
Rory Book and the Volumes’ music, a soul-stirring amalgamation of cosmic country and blues, stands as a living testament to Book’s multifaceted influences and his narrative of resilience. This signature sound, both authentic and raw, captivates the listener, offering a window into the soul of an artist who has indeed walked through fire. Book’s journey, marked by significant personal trials reveals a man not unscathed but unmistakably fortified by his experiences. It’s within this musical odyssey that the profound bond forms between Book and his bandmates, onstage and off.
The local Champaign-Urbana music scene has significantly shaped Book and the band’s musical identity. Book attributes his eclectic sound to the diverse musical landscape of the area, mentioning influences from friends and local bands like Kilborn Alley, Clayton Burke, Terminus Victor and Hum. This rich tapestry of local sounds has not only influenced Book’s music but has also provided a backdrop against which he could carve his unique niche. The challenge and obligation to find a middle ground among these influences underscore the local scene’s impact on his music. Book’s narrative is thus not just a personal tale of overcoming adversity but also a story deeply intertwined with the musical fabric of C-U, reflecting its communal spirit.
Book’s path from an eager young kid who wanted a guitar to a mature musician creating compelling original music highlights a story of personal evolution. His and his band’s journey resonates with themes of overcoming challenges and finding a sense of belonging in the musical community. Their performances strike a chord with the audience, highlighting how their music translates Book’s experiences and feelings honestly and effectively. This underscores music’s ability to connect, comfort, and brighten our lives with its melodies. As Book continues to evolve both personally and musically, I’m eager to witness his journey and share in the experience.
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