More than a decade ago, Israel Nash became known as a rock-and-roll torchbearer for his generation. Based in New York, his early audiences were mainly in Europe, with publications such as MOJO embracing his style. He spent six years in New York working on his craft before realizing that his deepest roots lay in the Midwest. As the son of a pastor, Nash was drawn to the music, but school was a priority for him, so he attended the University of Missouri earning a Master’s Degree in Political Science, and fronting Rock bands at night.
Following graduation, Nash and his wife moved to New York, but missed the laid-back tranquility of country living. So, they bought some acreage in Dripping Springs, TX, packed up and settled into what Nash calls their “forever home.”
“I grew up in little churches that were in the middle of nowhere in Missouri, so having the woods and being outside has been part of me since I was a kid,” Nash says. “I also saw community – just this sense of people needing something, somebody, to look forward to. That was church for them, and that’s okay. I don’t really feel like there is just one right thing to look forward to. As a musician, I think that’s what I’ve found too – something for people to look forward to, a reason to come together. No matter what changes in my career, that is my anchor, the need people have.
“Music can be the space where people think – even just for a few minutes. The space is not about changing their lives or political views or their party ticket. It’s about creating something that prompts reflection in a moment – and those reflections have other chain reactions.”
Ozarker, is a beautifully crafted collection of tunes that cause the listener to be drawn into a world where one’s flaws, hopes and dreams reside within the soul. The title track, Ozarker, reflects the work of rockers such as Bruce Springsteen, CSN, and at times the vocals recall early records by The Police, along with other songwriters who wrote about living life to the fullest no matter what. Definitely listen to this gem all the way through to find the tranquility Nash has written about.
Israel Nash’s Ozarker is finding strong support at WMOT, KBAC, KUTX, WRSI, WYEP and more.
