(from Erik’s website)

Erik Mitchell – A Storyteller’s Dream

The bridge connecting traditional to modern is a long span, probably made of rope and wood at the start, giving way to large steel beams nearing the end. Very rarely does an artist cover this entire length successfully, as its many trappings have snared more than one promising talent. However, Philadelphia-based singer/songwriter Erik Mitchell has navigated his way from both traditional to modern, taking a bevy of followers along for the ride.

With the wit of Randy Newman, the nostalgic sincerity of Tom Waits, and the modern poetic detail of Josh Ritter and Jack Johnson, Erik can spin a tale through his music seldom heard in songwriting today. He displays an exceptional gift for narrative, which is the focal thread running through each of his songs. Overflowing with vivid characters and settings, it has been said that listening to his music is like watching a series of four-minute movies. His colorful stories are matched with timeless guitar melodies, while his live performances offer intense emotion, intimate delivery, and sharp humor.

Educated at two Ivy League universities, as well as Berklee College of Music, Erik’s smarts are evident throughout his entire repertoire. It may be his roots as an actor, or perhaps his extensive study of early British, Appalachian and Western ballads, but he’s always felt it necessary to carry on the folk tradition of storytelling though song. From the ill-fated sailor in “Man of the Sea” to “Earlene’s” hard-up trucker, each of his compositions share the common gift of passionate yet simple narratives, touching upon universal emotions every listener can relate to.

Receiving his first guitar at age twenty and not writing his first song until two years later, Erik was forced to pick up the pen, and subsequently caught the spirit, when his college band was sick of playing cover tunes. A few years and hundreds of songs later, Erik is one of the East Coast’s most talented and prolific performers. He’s recently entertained audiences at legendary clubs like The Tin Angel in Philadelphia, PA and Club Passim in Boston, MA, functions for the Philadelphia Songwriter’s Project, as well as at a number of eastern universities.

Erik’s first official CD release, All These Words, containing 14 original compositions was released in the Fall of 2005 after many months of hard work at the Grammy Award-winning MorningStar Studios. His album continues to receive critical acclaim and plans are already in the works for a follow up release. Check the news page for details.