Derek A. Dempsey Releases His Latest Album What's The Color Of Poverty? Recommended by Whom You Know Our Coverage Sponsored by Hallak Cleaners the Couture Cleaner
Derek A. Dempsey Photo by Joe Johnson
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It's been said that music is the universal language. And, indeed, music touches people all over the world, regardless of age, ethnicity, social status, gender, etc. But certain music speaks to certain individuals more than others, and such was the case when I played Derek A. Dempsey's new CD,What's The Color of Poverty?, for the first time. With no crazy bells and whistles, nothing overproduced or overly slick, just Mr. Dempsey's guitar and vocals, the music had more of a direct line to my mind and heart. Originally from Dublin, Ireland, Mr. Dempsey now resides in New York's Hudson Valley, and What's The Color Of Poverty? is his second solo album. Created as a concept album to address the multitude of problems faced by today's society, the album features many originals, as well as a few covers of songs that have special meaning to him, including John Lennon's "Imagine." As I listened to the album, I was amazed by the clarity of his messages and the plaintive manner in which he delivered them. His lyrics are concise and eloquent - nothing seems overwrought; he simply sings from his heart, and that shines through in each and every song. Amid all of the problems he explores with his songs, there is still a sense of optimism - for instance, in the first track, "What Do We Do?" I truly feel that he's not just asking a rhetorical question, he is truly looking for a way to fix the ills of the world. A true breath of fresh air in its honesty and simplicity, "What's The Color Of Poverty?" is highly recommended by this panelist!
This album is full of that great combination of raspy-ness and lilt that the Irish do so well! I grew up listening to both traditional and more-modern Irish music, and I love it all! This is the first time I have heard Derek A. Dempsey, and I was not disappointed. His album is raw and political, which I have no doubt was exactly his aim. In Letter to the World, I LOVE that he places Irish politician Gerry Adams with the likes of Nelson Mandela and Dr. King. If you don’t know who Gerry Adams is, or are unfamiliar with the Northern Ireland peace process, there is plenty of information online. Some of the other standouts on What’s the Color of Poverty? include a fantastic rendition of John Lennon’s Imagine. Another bonus was the lyrics at the tail end of Paper Street: “Hope it doesn’t rain” which made me laugh out loud when I heard it. It embodied optimism and a bit of sarcastic cynicism all at the same time. My favorite track was An American Sings His Song. It’s catchy, but raw and a great perspective on life and human journeys. Definitely check out the latest from Derek A. Dempsey!
Let's call them folk songs. Think back to the nights of coffeehouses dawning on an Age of Aquarius morning. From the traces of the Beat Generation to echoes of a guitar strumming in Mac Arthur Park, these are songs of soft protest. Derek uses his talent with lyrics that capture social reality now. Much as those heroes of the hip, troubadours of any age sat in their places of righteous indignation, Derek has taken up the torch. With an edge of the positive, these are not just songs of protest. Derek gives us statement of fact, with his own cuts, and a cover of a familiar strain, "Imagine". In peace, Derek brings his message. His Irish roots may have engendered his edge, but they definitely molded his poetic bent. Throw one of these songs into your mix, for a moment of consciousness. Live the message. Derek's voice is melodic, and his guitar is his only accompaniment, which gives us the space to listen to the lyrics. Savor the moment. My favorite is #9, a loping kind of cowboy song, smooth and easy, much like Derek's pacing throughout the CD. He's an Irish boy, displaced to northern New York State, and singing of world troubles and peace. What could be more natural?
Music has always been one of my passions. I love to sing, and I also play the clarinet. Unfortunately, listening to the radio these days leaves a lot to be desired. The pop songs that dominate the airwaves have no substance, meaning, or soul. Instead, I often turn to other sources like iTunes to find artists who have real talent and a message behind their music. It is there that you can find a true artist like Derek A. Dempsey and his newly released album, "What's the Color of Poverty?" This album delves into the issues of the depressed economy, joblessness, and the protests that have sprouted up around the world. The lyrics have real meaning, and the music is filled with artistry and soul. I am amazed at how these beautifully written songs also contain such powerful messages. The songs will move you, and I hope inspire change for the better in the world.
What’s The Color Of Poverty?
Derek A. Dempsey is a singer and songwriter. Originally from Dublin Ireland, he currently lives in New York's Hudson Valley. Singing original compositions of great passion and truth, Derek also performs a select set of covers from the past 50 years that hold special meaning to him.
Derek releases his second solo album, What’s The Color Of Poverty? on iTunes worldwide on July 16th.
What’s The Color Of Poverty? is a concept album featuring songs such as
"What Do We Do?, "If I Were a Black Man,"and "Give Us Back Our World."
Each selection on the album addresses the current and long term problems faced by today's society, including the effects of the economic collapse, joblessness, and mass protests throughout the world.
The most popular song from “What’s The Color Of Poverty?” to this point is “Breathing Like An Alien." The lyrics were partially written with an exceptionally talented young, deaf woman. She can be heard introducing "Alien" by speaking the phrase which inspired the song, in her own unique voice.
Derek tells us: "The plan for me is just to keep moving forward. I was banging my head against a wall in Ireland as far a making success, so I came to this amazing country that I adore and love. I was meant for this country. I am not only accepted but loved for my art and passion and self belief. What more could an artist want aside from a hit song???"
Contact:
Tel: 845 625 4134
Email: derekadempsey@optonline.net
