Ben Brookes - The Motor Car & the Weather Balloon (2017)

With the help of a new Minneapolis-based label, Martin-Guild, Ben came to America and recorded his first full-length album ever: The Motor Car & The Weather Balloon. To bring his music to life, Martin-Guild engaged some of the finest musicians in the Midwest, including drummer Michael Bland, who, in addition to playing with Prince, has played for Johnny Lang, George Benson, Chaka Khan, The Dixie Chicks, and Soul Asylum.

Also credited on Ben’s record are Greg Inhofer, who played keyboards on Bob Dylan’s album Blood On The Tracks, and Badfinger guitarist — whose rich history includes playing with George Harrison on his award-winning solo album All Things Must Pass — Joey Molland.

The album was produced by Mark Healey (Badfinger) and the results are amazing. The line-up of musicians brought extraordinary talent and influence to the music. “Ben brings incredible power and raw emotion, as well as a remarkable ability to tell a story through each and every song on the album,” Mark said.

“He was a joy to work with.” Two of the album’s videos, for Stories in the Rain and The Girl Who Cried Wolf, were directed by Emmy-winning Dan Huiting. The Motor Car & The Weather Balloon goes to college radio and AAA in fall with the help of Tinderbox and Notorious Radio. Feature songs include Integration (Not Segregation), The Girl Who Cried Wolf, Stories in the Rain, and Shackles.

“His vocals are crystal clear, and focused on sharing his message to listeners.” — The Spin Cycle

“Integration (Not Segregation) could be compared to the higher message of hope so dear to artists such as John Lennon or Bob Geldof, just to mention a few.” — Band Camp Diaries

“This song got my head nodding and had me leave it on repeat all day.” — MI2N

“Where it goes next is an emotive, less-is-more place filled with integrity, intelligence, and, most of all, great songwriting. Count me along for the ride.” — Dancing About Architecture

“Injecting hope into a darkening world, Integration (Not Segregation) focuses on the importance of accepting one another despite color, culture, or creed.” — Middle Tennessee Music

“The production is straight out of the top drawer and the effects used in the introduction and towards the end are really cool too!” — Buden Bay

“This is a pretty incredible song. Taking the very best of effective musical build ups, utilising the passion of heartfelt songwriting and a lust for indie rock instrumentation – Ben Brookes showcases the way to make a hook hit with impact.” — Stereo Stickman

“Delivering a message of people divided by a system set to keep us from uniting, the strong tone and lyrics captures you. because at this moment, we all quietly feel a fear of self destruction.” — MyFunk

Track List:
1. Integration (Not Segregation) (04:38)
2. I Want to Go Home (03:07)
3. Asleep in Galilee (03:04)
4. The Girl Who Cried Wolf (03:53)
5. Crack a Smile (03:15)
6. Before Sunlight (04:38)
7. Look Through My Eyes (03:22)
8. Stories in the Rain (02:48)
9. Siren (04:12)
10. Shackles (04:07)

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