Acoustic Americana, stripped down to just guitars and vocals is a tried and true formula. Think Johnny Cash, Townes Van Zandt, Elvis’s later years, and a ton more acoustic artists or duos, the equation is old and simple, and with a few detrimental factors that decide its success, those are a tightly played rhythm part, a compelling style of delivery, but perhaps most importantly, an inviting story that pulls you in under a spell. So, does Pete Miller’s Hard To Find check those boxes? Let’s find out.
Pete Miller hails from Philadelphia, and Hard To Find is a part of his latest album. An acoustic-only arrangement the song successfully manages to pull you in from the first second, and doesn’t let go until it’s over. The song had me at the very first chord strums, with a smart rhythmic change in the intro that has more impact on getting a moment going than you might notice. Pete’s delivery is inviting, personal, and dynamic. With little in terms of vocal treatment, the delivery sounds organic and honest, like Pete is present in your room, recounting this magical story directly to your ears. The playing is tight and rhythmic, the acoustic guitar sounds warm and the strumming is smooth as silk. And the story, full of bows and arrows and struggles for survival in a medieval setting that’s rare in an acoustic Americana song, the lyrical vibes reminded me of Led Zeppelin’s Ramble On or Battle of Evermore.
It’s easy to deduce that “Hard To Find” easily checks all the boxes that make this song; fun, compelling, and memorable. With a unique voice and a knack for fantastical stories, Pete Miller will ensnare you with his amazing track.