WFMU : Freedom is Freeform!

Daniel Pujol writes energetic garage-punk anthems channeling the classic vibes of his hometown, Nashville TN aka Music City USA... but the venn diagram between the 25-year-old songwriter and the Grand Ole Opry doesn't stretch much further than a shared affinity for Telecaster guitars. Pujol cut his teeth on the other side of town, perhaps equally inspired by music from the other Athens of the South, working at Domino's while "Little Richard drives around in a stretch hummer and hands out books about Jesus" (that's a quote from our radio interview). All the while he's been cramming stream-of-consciousness lyrics like a contemporary philosopher into infectious hooks perfect for raisin' a fist to the air.

After playing in countless local bands (including Meemaw, Wizardz, and Denny & The Jets) Daniel Pujol's eponymous solo project has really taken flight this year -- or hit the road, rather -- with several van-powered tours through the NY/NJ area. I've seen 'em three times this year and they keep getting better. The lineup's shifted around a bit but seems to finally be gelling with Sean Thompson on guitar, Joey Scala on bass, and Adam Tanaka on drums. They were jamming on a kraut/boogie-rock riff during soundcheck, hinting at what the future might hold even beyond this incredible live session recorded which aired on my WFMU radio show:

I hope this session helps Pujol's music reach an audience beyond Nashville, where he's already the toast of the town. Local fans already include Nashville transplant Jack White, whose Third Man venue played host to a live Pujol gig that is now available on 12'' vinyl. Third Man also released a Pujol 7'' produced by the White Stripe himself. Pujol's discography already includes releases on Infinity Cat Recordings, the label run by local dudes Jeff The Brotherhood. And a new 7'' helped launch the Turbo Time imprint, run by Jonas Stein of Turbo Fruits and Be Your Own Pet.

Oh, and if you're wondering what these songs are about, check out the intros!