Nathan Thompson’s debut solo recording, Solid Ground, is a beautiful, accomplished, poignant, and fun collection of works by one of songwriting’s most creative artists. This wonderfully produced album is a reflection of Nathan’s vast influences, from Johnny Cash to Miles Davis, Emmylou Harris to the Modern Jazz Quartet. One of the year’s most exciting discoveries, Solid Ground has an unusual sound and emotional character that defies the usual categorizations. Solid Ground is the result of more than thirteen years of musical exploration and songwriting, and embodies Nathan’s view of life through relationships—romantic, family, friends, and others. With his thoughtfulness and keen sense of humor, Nathan writes expressive songs that examine common human experiences that speak to everyone—what it’s like to lose someone, miss someone, learn something new, and to grow through emotional healing. Recorded in Nashville at The Playground Produced by Matt McClure Assistant Engineer, Charlie HubbsAll songs by Nathan Thomson Nathan Thomson, vocals Gary Smith, Piano Jeff King, Electric Guitar Kevin Grant, Bass Pat McGrath, Acoustic Tommy Harden, Drums Glen Duncan, Fiddle, Mandolin, Banjo Scott Sanders, Steel Danny Myrick, Rodney Ingle, Chip Davis, Background VocalsNathan Thompson is a charismatic songwriter, singer, and guitarist whose refreshing blend of country, blues, rock, pop, and soul creates music that is remarkably appealing and exceptionally striking. Infused with a passion, thoughtfulness, and sense of humor, Nathan’s songs are unforgettable. Raised in a musical family in Madelia, Minnesota, a small farming town in the south central part of the state (as the sign says on the way in: Population 2,316), Nathan began to study the piano in the second grade (with his music-teacher mother), and picked up the clarinet in the fifth grade. Soon after he discovered the guitar and fell in love with its sound, style, and versatility. He began to write his own music and lyrics—taking those first steps down the life-long path of singer/songwriter. He enrolled as an undergraduate at St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN, where his songwriting began in earnest, when he wasn’t studying English literature and running track and cross-country (his team ran Minnesota style: racing through the woods, dodging trees, and having leaf catching contests). After graduation Nathan became a district executive for the Boy Scouts of America, but he continued to grow musically through songwriting and the exploration of jazz guitar. A friend suggested he check out Berklee College of Music, so he applied, was accepted, and journeyed east to Boston. Nathan received a Berklee Diploma in Guitar Performance and graduated with honors. Nathan took off on the jazz track, but soon realized that he needed to return to his first love: being a singer/songwriter. Blending his various influences—including Willie Nelson, Miles Davis, Wes Montgomery, Charlie Parker, Bonnie Raitt, Emmylou Harris, Hank Williams, Ray Charles, Chris Smither, and Johnny Cash—Nathan created songs with a sound all his own. He founded The Nathan Thompson Band with guitarist and banjo player Jim Bouchard, bass guitarist John Rapoza, and drummer Rick Pierik. The group played throughout Boston for two years, making appearances at T.T. The Bears, Club Passim, and The Best of Boston Singer/Songwriter Showcase. The music was rootsy, folky rock/pop, and band’s performances often featured fuzzed out psychedelic banjo. Nathan continues to perform regularly as a solo artist throughout Boston's (and beyond) acoustic music scene. He has been featured live on Emerson Radio's WERS-FM and has shared gigs with musicians like Marc Erelli, Kris Delmhorst, Mary Gauthier, and Dennis Brennan. He has co-written two songs with Colleen Sexton,"Got You On My Mind," &"This Whole World," both of which are included on her CD, Greatest Find. With his debut album, Solid Ground, Nathan has established himself as an up and coming musician who deserves to be heard. Recorded in Nashville, along side of some of that city’s most talented musicians, Solid Ground is a collection thirteen years in the making, and through it Nathan offers a glimpse into his soul through expert songwriting and brilliant performances.