CHRISTOPHER DALLMAN: Race the Light

Christopher Dallman

Race the Light

© 2003 Christopher Dallman (801967040128)

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'transcendent' folk-pop that announces a bold new voice on the musical horizon.

tracks

1 Motel Room
2 This Is Calm
3 Mistake
4 Green Camaro
5 The 7th of September
6 Nighttime in the City
7 Brand New Lover
8 Over My Head
9 Hollow High
10 Driving to You
11 Dragonfly

notes

"A Soulful debut!" -- TimeOut Chicago

"One man heading this way from the Milwaukee, USA courtesy of Unearthed Productions is 26-year-old singer -songwriter Christopher Dallman. 'Mistake' has the benefit of some snappy band playing in a stop-start style and fine harmonies in a hard-driving tuneful song. 'This Is Calm' is appropriately more relaxed, with a touch of sixties introspective folk-rock about it, violin and all, and a convincingly passionate vocal delivery from Dallman. 'Over My Head' is a deliciously laid-back reflection on lethargy and fear. Dallman is a fine tunesmith and his guitar-playing pulls no punches either. His distinct vocal style has touches of the lightness of a James Taylor or a David Gray. He is an assured performer who should find a ready audience for his intelligent and lyrical output around Europe."
-Jackie Hayden, Hotpress Magazine, Ireland

"Christopher Dallman is a charismatic and talented fellow who's music I found completely enthralling. Now I realize that most of you associate me with the world of electronica, and wouldn't expect me to be showering such a performance with praise. Well, if you think this sort of stuff isn't my bag, you'd be wrong. I've always had a soft spot for the simple pleasures of a well written song driven by a great voice and guitar - and to be honest, the man almost moved me to tears at one point. Yes my friends - I thought he was that good!"
-DJ Greg Haus


"Christopher Dallman's debut CD is an entertainingly literary pilgrimage into the inner sanctum of the songwriter's psyche. If good songwriting confronts listeners with truth about themselves, their emotions, and their world from a fresh point of view, then the songs on Race The Light represent songwriting at its best."
-Ken Mowery, Indie-Music.com

"Folkster Christopher Dallman sings with the conviction of an inmate given one last appeal in the form of a song. His percussive, flattop rhythms and soul-bearing lyrics would make Ani DiFranco proud."
-Music-Tech.net

"Inspired showmanship... hard-driving songs..."
-Backstage

"Lyrics of deep introspection enveloped in a passionate acoustic melody are leading Christopher Dallman to the forefront of a new generation of songwriters."
-Robbie Krevolin, Jambase.com

"Some damn good songs!"
-HarrisRadio.com

The 2004 release of 'Race the Light' introduces a distinct new voice to the landscape of popular music. Meet singer / songwriter Christopher Dallman, one the best kept secrets of the NYC and LA club scenes.

Born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Dallman attended a coat-and-tie private school in the 'burbs, where he was alternately the shy guy sleeping in the back of the classroom and the star of the school play.

At 16, Christopher tiptoed onto Milwaukee's acoustic scene refining his broken-hearted rants at smoky coffee-house open mics before settling into a regular friday night at the trendy Sunset Boulevard. Without amplification, he sang his melodic angst-folk to a frequently packed room.

With 'Race the Light,' the debut album out now on Treasure Records, 26 year old Christopher Dallman rounds out the angst of his youth with a fuller emotional pallette and makes good on the promise of years spent living, writing, and performing in New York City, where he frequented such esteemed venues as the Living Room, The Bitter End, and Makor.

With distinctly literate lyrics and a voice that is unmistakable, Dallman brings his live audience on a journey that has been exquisitely captured and sonically elevated on the 11 songs that comprise 'Race the Light.'

Christopher Dallman is currently based in Los Angeles and has shared the stage with such notable acts as Amos Lee, Jonathan Rice, Tara Angell, Casey Stratton, Julia Darling, and Rachael Sage.

S P R E A D T H E W O R D

reviews

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  • Gorgeous
    author: Howard Stump

    Race The Light is a beautiful collection of music. Dallman's amazing voice moves from light and haunting to rich and full, adding another layer of instrumentation to the lush and heartfelt poetry. The only thing I don't like about Mr Dallman is he keeps me waiting for another collection. But he makes up for it by letting me listen to this CD time and time again.

  • Race The Light
    author: Deborah D Lowman

    If you love a lyricist that can turn a word and back it up with music that makes you move, then buy this album.

  • Excellent!
    author: Jennifer

    Keep making great music!

  • The best CD I've bought in a long time
    author: Laura St. Germain

    I really liked this CD. I find myself listening to it over and over again without getting sick of it. Dallman's lyrics are beautiful; his poetry inspiring.

  • EXCELLENT music...heartfelt and passionate!
    author: Doug

    I heard some of these tracks on myspace and fell in love with them. They are all original pieces, written by Christopher Dallman himself. The music is wonderful, and highly recommended!

  • A Great New Singer-Songwriter
    author: StevenMWhite

    I heard two tracks on this album on Myspace.com and immediately bought the whole album. It didn't dissapoint. Motel Room and This Is Calm are my favourites. Looking forward to the follow-up.

  • Great CD
    author: George

    Love the raspy, unique voice and the sparse instrumentals. The more I listen to it, the more I like it, and the more I discover. From the first striking metaphor, "He looks just like Disneyland..." he had me hooked. I listen to it every weekend. Great CD.

  • This album is just amazing! talented singer/songwriter
    author: Darren

    This album is just amazing, love it! I bought 2 copies one for the home and one for the car! and I cannot stop listening to it. Christopher you're one amazing talented singer/songwriter and hope you will cross the pond soon to perform.......... Thanks to CDBaby for the quick delivery to the UK. Best Wishes DazX

  • Such great music,
    author: Bryan

    Such great music, and so good looking too... dare I say it? Yummy even. :) I haven't taken the cd out since I got it. It been playing all day, every day. I finally turned it down so that it's barely audible to even me. It's day 14 (or something) of it playing 7 hours a day. I don't want my co-workers to kill me.

  • Gets better the more you listen
    author: Brandon

    I had a friend tell me I needed to buy this CD. At first listen I was like okay, not bad. But after listening to it more and more I really began to appreciate the amazing lyrics and composition in his music. It is now one of my top 5 in my cd player.

  • Awesome CD
    author: Felton Greene

    Heard Christopher Dallman on myspace, so i came and found him at cd baby. I love it. Haven't taken it out of my cd player yet.

  • Refreshing new talent to get immersed in
    author: Thom Brown

    I had never heard of Christopher Dallman this time 2 months ago, but ever since I had heard a couple of his songs online I had to try the whole album out. It's now my most listened to album and is most likely to become a personal classic of mine. I highly recommend it.

  • author: Dawn Van Horn

    Wonderful! Not only is his voice amazing, but he's an amazing person as well. His songs are from the heart and tell a story. I listen to this cd ALL THE TIME!

  • Christopher totally has what it takes to make it HUGE! Amazing voice!
    author: Sandy

    I'm so in love with this cd! Normally you buy a cd and like only a couple of tracks but I love every song on this one. All are very well written pieces and Christopher seems to touch my soul with his smooth voice. Totally as good as anything ani di ever did! Congrats, Chris! Cant wait to see what else you have in store for us!

  • Freakin fantastic CD!!!!! Love, Love , love it!!!!
    author: Mabel Bedocs

    This Cd captures a warmth and honesty, a style that gives feel good vibes....The vocals are strong and harmonious....

  • A spctacular, thrilling, chilling joyride for the soul.
    author: Jason Kalakaua Woodward

    RACE THE LIGHT is a spectacular thrilling chilling ride for the soul. The best of my emotions are provoked in so many ways. It has become my most prized CD.

  • This is an amazing CD!
    author: Greg Wolfenden

    The CD is good, the songs remind me a little bit of Damien Rice, but the lyrics are less sad. The songs are good to just chill out, relax and listen to.

  • author: Gracie

    Christopher Dallman... What an amazing artist. R*T*L* is an incredible cd. He is refreshing as an artist, and deserves wide attention for his talents. Listen to "Over my Head" I have never heard such a song.

  • excellent CD
    author: Lesley

    This is a great, great CD. Dallman has a beautiful voice and his lyrics are very poetic. If you get a chance, try to see him live-- the clarity and beauty of his voice is amazing.

  • most incredible cd i've ever heard
    author: Zoe

    This CD is so unbelievably amazing, the songs are really meaningful and i wish this guy was more recognized. All my favorite songs are on this album. It's really awesome.

  • More people should know about this guy.
    author: Russell Phillips

    This cd has to be one of my top three favorite cds right now. Since the moment I got it a week ago, nothing else has been in my cd player. The way his voice goes from being elegantly gentle to passionately audible is amazing. I will definately be looking for future cds. Thanks!

  • amazing.
    author: Sarah

    Christopher Dallman is a true talent. RACE THE LIGHT is all I listen to since I got the CD. I love everything about it. just fantastic. Keep em commin..

  • This is the CD I play over & over...
    author: Binkie Lou

    This music touches my heart; seeing Christopher Dallman perform was awesome and gave me a whole new perspective on his songwriting and singing talent. Spread the word--this guy is the real thing!

  • author: J-sin

    Singer/songwriter Christopher Dallman is determined to peek his head out in the crowded New York City scene armed with his debut “Race the Light”. Soul-searching lyrics are peppered with nods to past and present songwriters in a ranging style. His vocals are never shaky and he explores spaces with ease. It’s uncommon that a debut album has this much punch and promise all packed into one firm unit. Wait till the Village Voice catches onto his genius, you’ll be forced to buy tickets well in advance of his shows rather than at the door.

  • Intelligent, emotional songs from a gifted artist
    author: Paul

    I think I'm in love! Christopher has said everything on this album that needs to be said. "Over My Head" makes me cry every time I hear it. He's got the songs, the voice, the talent, the looks! Wow!

  • A sure bet
    author: Jake Goodman

    This is an amazing CD. Christopher Dallman's songs are driving: they are powerful, dramatic and very personal. I just love his writing. Buy it!

  • i can't get this CD off my stereo...
    author: carolyn hudson

    i too am an artist on CDBaby. so my expectations about musicianship and songwriting are high. christopher, i cannot believe you haven't been picked up by a major yet. your songs are smart, gorgeous, and real. when are you playing nyc again? would love to see you...i'm at joe's pub in january www.carolynhudson.com. double bill sometime?? breathe & believe, carolyn

  • author: Jim Cartwright

    I love listening to Christopher Dallman's CD . Every time I do it makes me feel more alive and in touch with the complexity of daily life. I appreicate how both his slightly hushed voice and beautiful guitar can express such a wide range of emotions. My favorites include This is Calm, Mistake, Nighttime in the City, Over My Head and Dragonfly.

  • Magnificent style, songs of life, lover in a heartbeat...
    author: Jay Lowen

    A beautiful achievement, a remarkable voice, a style and grace that makes you believe in humanity again...I was hoping there were still real people in this world...Thank you!!!

  • This CD never leaves my CD player!
    author: Lissa McMicken

    I have 2 copies of this CD so that I do not have to move it from work to home every day. You can actually feel his words coming through the incredible music in every type of song. There is something for everyone on this CD and it is one of my all-time favorites!

  • Dallman is Undiscovered Gold
    author: Felix PIre

    Forget John Mayer, and his ilk. Check out Chris Dallman, who has pounded the gravel in New York dives with his unique and poetic rocky folk tunes, and multifaceted voice. The fact that this great talent is as yet undiscovered my a major label is a mystery to me. Kudos to the label that took him on! This first album is laden with images of New York, and a soulful melancholy that is uniquely Dallman. Sit back, listen and chill... If you get to see him live, lucky you!

  • author: Gina Fielding

    This is the freshest thing I have heard all year! Great songs, great singing, great stories!

  • author: Angie

    emo folk rock that artfully defies easy categorization. A nice journey, start to finish... and i frequently start it all over again. kudos!

  • I listen to this CD over and over again.
    author: Candice

    I listen to this CD over and over again! The songs are awesome, and Christopher has a beautiful and very unique voice.

  • CD of the year-
    author: Kristin Forgiano

    I listen to CD's CD every night. The lyrics capture you. His song's reflect a trip back into his past as you travel through his life; an emotional but fun ride. "With you I connect..."

  • author: Jenny

    There isn't one song on "Race the Light" that doesn't leave the listener in awe, only wanting more. Dallman's folky beats are a calming pleasure to listen to anywhere. The words roll of his tongue, crystal clear, as you get wrapped into the stories the lyrics tell. It's touching, it's dramatic, it's light.. it's everything a tremendous debut CD needs to be a huge success! The obvious passion Dallman portrays makes any listener feel he is singing directly to you. "In the moonlight we're all so pretty; beautiful, we hold on tight to nighttime in the city." A beautiful artist that will have his listeners holding on tight to him....

  • author: Joshua Pohja

    This is one bad ass record. I loved it. Who is this guy? I encourage everyone to check out his website and listen to one song (if not purchase this awesome record). It's infectious. You'll find yourself rocking out in your car. I can't wait for more. Rock on, Christopher!! -- not to mention he's a hotty!! "Nighttime in the City" and "Over My Head" are da bomb!

  • Absolute perfection!
    author: Carrie Olinger

    Not only is Chris's voice enticing and mesmerizing, but the lyrics are extraordinarily astounding. There is great and obvious passion behind each song and a flawless sound to go with it. I can't get his songs out of my head and frankly, I don't want to!

  • Awesome first album...
    author: Beckett

    Awesome first album... how long do i have to wait for the 2nd?

  • Confessional folk-rock that leaves you wanting more
    author: Christie

    A masterful lyricist with a rootsy folk-rock sound, Christopher Dallman brings a confessional intimacy to his debut album 'Race the Light.' The eleven songs weave an alternately funky, moving, moody journey where the lows can be (and often are) as fulfilling as the highs. Inspired lyrics remind us of a poetry missing from today's mass-marketed pop standards. The songs are genuine and dimensional, proving that intelligent and personal writing can still be accessible. There are no political messages, no societal judgments, or words of advice or scorn for the listener... only stories to be told. 'Race the Light' strikes a sublime balance between sound and word, style and presentation. There is no fat to trim here, in fact songs often leave you wanting more (and on the lookout for live performances). Soaring vocals, ranging from a whisper to a shout, seem effortless for the singer-songwriter. In short, Dallman has made a remarkable first album that will endure long past its initial listens (when the catchy hooks of songs like 'Mistake' and 'Hollow High' beg for overkill). In the transcendent second track 'This is Calm', Dallman repeats "I wonder why I can't feel this." It delights me to say his listeners can.

  • great voice, great songs
    author: Jason Horowitz

    Christopher Dallman delivers a fantastic performance on this album. His songs are heartfelt, and his passion comes through clearly. His excellent guitarwork and strong vocal work make it a really fun album to listen to.

  • Poetic and moving, music that follows you mellifluously throughout your day.
    author: Shannon

    "Race the Light" is definitely the richest combination of vocals, instrumentation, lyrics, and heart for Dallman yet. The guitar is unfailingly mesmerizing and the addition of piano is simply sublime. No joke, if there was one album I could pick up all year to play over and over...this would be it.

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