Marion Grace

Marion Grace | KahBang Festival 2011

Marion Grace | KahBang Festival 2011 The vision of Marion Grace was born on a highway heading north out of New York City in 2004. At that time, lead singer/writer Ralph Marion Graceffa, was embarking on a new life with one sole possession –a suitcase full of songs. In 2006, Ralph was introduced to Aaron Cloutier (drummer) and Clara Junken (singer/lead guitar). This core group formed the original line up for Marion Grace. Josh Prescott (Bass) was added to the lineup in 2010.

Marion Grace’s unique sound combines elements of rock and popular music with the truth of folk and the swagger of the blues. The emotionally charged story lines are driven by Ralph and Clara’s voices while cello, horns, and keys often accompany the core ensemble.

Based out of Portland, Marion Grace is considered one of the most promising new acts coming out of Maine. Most recently, Marion Grace won best Best Pop Rock Act for 2011 by the Portland Phoenix. They were also nominated for Best 2011 Live Act. ~ KahBang, KahBang Website

The band spent most of last year writing and recording, and “Lying Down Looking Up” was released last March. The album recalls the hyperintelligent jangle of R.E.M., the lonely country rock of Wilco, the emotionality of Bright Eyes and the spaghetti Western vibe of Calexico. The interlocking guitar work of “Tired” opens the album, followed by such highlights as the reverb-y “2 Car Garage” and “Heart Attack,” which highlights Graceffa’s excellent songwriting.
- Emily Burnham

Attachment:

Bangor Daily News - Emily Burnham (pdf)

Press Herald - Making Noise: Marion Grace sired on 'Yup' and a tank farm

Making Noise: Marion Grace sired on 'Yup' and a tank farm

It's been a cranked 2010 for Ralph Graceffa and his ramblin'-on outfit Marion Grace. Lighting the fuse was dropping the immensely buzz-worthy debut, "Lying Down, Looking Up," earlier this year, but the dynamite may not have even gone off yet.

- Mike Olcott

Attachment:

Making_Noise_Mike_Olcott.pdf