Okay, first of all, I had no idea that this Dustin Morris kid was so…um…hooooooot. Whew! I fell in love with his music first, and just caught a glimpse of the rest of him this morning. Dayum, if only I was 20-years younger..or…. Okay, ’nuff.

So like I stumbled upon the Knox Street Pub, AcousticKnox Series, days back, and found myself quite intrigued. That’s how I came across Dustin Morris. I took a stroll over to his MySpace page…and…well…the rest shall become history.

Dustin sent me a fresh new copy of his debut solo album, Balance. I always feel a tug of dread upon receipt of CDs from artists, new to me. I want the albums to be good. I want to love each and every one. But let’s face it, some suck. Not the case with Balance. Not the case whatsoever.

First thing to reach my ears was track one, “Had to Try,” a quirky, exceptionally fun tune chock full of handclaps and shakers and horns and Dustin’s addictive voice. I knew right away that this was a CD that would get a lot of attention from me, and hopefully the rest of the world.

Dustin’s lyrics tell of his great sense of humor, even on the sadder of songs. I like that. I also like the fact that this kid put out a top-notch debut album, recorded on his roomate’s computer, performing all the parts/instruments, save for a couple of songs, “First Time,” in which his brother Derek Morris sat in (and co-wrote), and on “Shake All Around,” in which his pal Greg Baldia sat in (and co-wrote). The other thing I love about this album is the diverse mix of genres with each song. I’d say Dustin managed to cover pop, roots, soul, Americana and even one rap song. It was fun just anticipating what was coming with each new track, and even more fun when it was one great song after another.

I’m sort of embarrassed to admit that, while I don’t think I’ve actually met Dustin Morris, I do know that I’ve seen a half-a-dozen (or so) of his former project, Until They Arrive, performances. Hell, I still remember their performance at the Wall of Sound Festival at Hailey’s back in 2005. Tre magnifique. I was raving about Dustin to Kate Mackley this past weekend, and it turns out he had just played White Rock Coffee. He’s also played Opening Bell, City Tavern and had a freakin’ CD release party at Good Records. How the hell did this guy fly under my radar? I need to work on that a little harder, eh?

Check out more Morris music here.

Purchase Balance at CD Baby, or getcherself out in the world and get a copy at Good Records.

Dustin Morris’ Upcoming Performance:

Wednesday, January 23rd
The Cavern (Dallas)
Dustin Morris Greenstar Band (11 PM) w/ Audio Overdose / Icarus
Doors at 9 PM – No Cover

More Shows.