Southern Arizona’s cherished original band, Eric Schaffer & The Other Troublemakers, is set to unveil their latest musical endeavor, ‘Dry Lightning,’ on November 10, 2023. Renowned for their quality original compositions, the band, led by the dynamic husband-and-wife duo Eric and Carol Schaffer, holds a significant place in the region’s musical landscape. ‘Dry Lightning’ emerges as a testament to their songwriting prowess, delivering a diverse and captivating collection of Americana and folk-rock tunes.
At the core of ‘Dry Lightning’ lies the collaborative spirit of Eric and Carol Schaffer. Partners in life and music since 2014, the couple has perfected the art of songwriting through numerous trips to Mexico and years of shared creative exploration. Every track on the album bears the imprint of this familial songwriting team, crafting narratives that resonate with authenticity and emotional depth.
The Schaffers’ songwriting excellence has not gone unnoticed. Finalists in prestigious competitions such as the Great American Song Contest, Passport to Nashville, and the Tucson Folk Festival Songwriting competition, their track “My Friend” clinched victory in the 2022 Tumbleweed Music Festival songwriting competition in Richland, WA. This recognition is a testament to the universal appeal of their heartfelt compositions.
Produced and mixed by Peter Dalton Ronstadt, ‘Dry Lightning’ marks a natural progression from the band’s earlier work, notably the 2018 album ‘Crazy Road Trip.’ The album embraces a fusion of folk, country, and rock sentiments, showcasing Eric Schaffer’s warm, throaty vocals that seamlessly transition between reflective ballads and danceable, electrifying tunes. The album features guest performances from Tucson’s distinguished Americana musicians, creating a harmonious blend of talent.
‘Dry Lightning’ introduces tracks that traverse the emotional spectrum. From the danceable title track to the heart-rending ballad “The Garden” and the fan-favorite “Mama’s BOGO Blues,” each song unfolds a distinct narrative. The album boasts collaborations with acclaimed musicians such as Alvin Blaine, Liz Cerepanya, Sunny Gable, Heather Hardy, Peter McLaughlin, Jim Lipson, Bobby Ronstadt, Michael G. Ronstadt, and Peter Dalton Ronstadt.
With nearly a decade of captivating audiences in the Southwest, Eric Schaffer & The Other Troublemakers have carved a niche for themselves in the Americana and folk-rock scene. Following the success of their debut LP ‘Crazy Road Trip,’ ‘Dry Lightning’ stands as a testament to their continued evolution and dedication to crafting music that resonates.
The Schaffer family extends their creative collaboration to their son Joe, who contributed to the lyrics of “Wild And Hard To Find” and co-wrote the fan-favorite “Mama’s BOGO Blues.” The family’s musical synergy enriches the album, providing listeners with an intimate glimpse into their shared creative journey.
Eric Schaffer’s insights into their songwriting process reveal a commitment to authenticity and audience connection. The band views each song as an opportunity to evoke a specific emotional response, whether it’s a devastating sad song, a joyous anthem, or a love ballad that beckons couples to the dance floor.
As ‘Dry Lightning’ prepares to strike the music scene on November 10, Eric Schaffer & The Other Troublemakers invite audiences to join them on a musical odyssey, exploring the vast landscapes of Americana with melodies that linger and stories that resonate long after the last note fades away.
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