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Tony Lee, originally from Auckland but now residing in Hamilton has delivered some pretty memorable and heartfelt alternative Country Rock tunes over the years. With two albums already under his belt Substitute is the third single to be released from his latest album So Far From The Truth.
This is a catchy track, upbeat even. But bear in mind that this is a Country Rock song and the lyrics are tinged with sadness of what I gathered was losing a loved one to the bottle. The accompanying video leads me to believe I was right. You can hear the emotion in Tony’s voice when he sings; there is a real sincerity in the way his music is delivered.
Substitute is a track which flows effortlessly, the band which backs Tony Lee offers a cohesive and clean sound with some captivating guitar riffs.
The composition of this single is genuine and frank and embraces Tony’s “heart on his sleeve style of writing”.
A far cry from his Punk Rock days as lead singer for Ward 19, Tony has found his niche in the realm of Country Rock music where his honest “salt of the earth” songs are making an impression.
I am discovering many hidden gems from the Waikato lately; Tony Lee is another sparkling example of memorable music from the other side of the Kaimai Range. If you are after some original wholehearted alternative Country Rock, check out Tony Lee Music.
About the author Corinne Rutherford
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My name is Corinne. I am a music reviewer based in Tauranga. I am currently in a band called The Knids with my partner Michael and good friend Chris. My journey in the NZ music scene started with gig photography, which then evolved into writing and singing. I am passionate about local and New Zealand based music and the musical artists who create it.
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