Watch Gregory Uhlmann’s Paste Session at Big Ears Festival

Paste Studio “On The Road” headed south to the Big Ears Festival in Knoxville, Tennessee. Since its formation in 2009, the Big Ears Festival has been known for its diverse lineup and boundary-crossing art. Tombras Headquarters in downtown Knoxville created the perfect urban loft vibe.

The Paste x Big Ears session series kicks off with Gregory Uhlmann and Will Miller. Together they created a soft electronic sound throughout the room, performing “Pocket Snails” from Uhlmann’s most recent album, Extra Stars.

Starting his musical journey in 2017 with his first album, Odd Job, Uhlmann has grown and developed his solo career, along with several collaborative projects, including work with Perfume Genius, Miya Folick, Hand Habits’ Meg Duffy, and jazz quintet SML. Earlier this year, Paste named Uhlmann one of the best contemporary guitarists. Editor Matt Mitchell wrote, “I’ve watched him play a couple of times, and the guy walks through portals on stage. His tones and textures lend environments to the music; his improvisations live on within you after they’ve stopped vibrating. ”

“Pocket Snails” is the perfect first song to showcase how original Gregory Uhlmann’s sound is. With layered guitar tones, ambient thrills, and subtle rhythms, the room was taken over by the compelling noise. Extra Stars displays Uhlmann’s experimental and unique approach, transcending this album into another world. Miller uses an Electronic Valve Instrument (EVI), explaining its origin in the late 1970s and how it was crafted after an authentic trumpet.

The second song, “Dottie,” is more emotional with its soft guitar notes. The core of this song is repetition, and the slow pacing and open space allow the song to be fully digested by the audience. “Lucia” is the perfect cinematic ending to wrap up the session. With the airy production and slow harmony added in, it makes you feel like the ending of a great movie is ahead.

Huge thanks from the Paste team to everyone at Big Ears and Tombras who helped make such a great video possible. Keep your eyes peeled for more Paste Sessions. Read our recent feature with SML here. 

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