Local musician, photographer brings magic to his followers

By Jennifer Priest Mitchell

The Times, Oct 12, 2007, Updated Oct 30, 2009 (1 Reader comment)

ADVERTISEMENTS

(Jennifer Priest Mitchell is a writer who lives in Beaverton. She can be reached at jnjmitchell@yahoo.com.)

I’ve been wildernessed without even going outside. And I liked it. Care to try it for yourself?

You can. Just pick up a copy of the CD of the same name, “Wildernessed,” by Patrick Burke. Or, take in one of his local shows at Ava Roasteria or Dessert Noir, among other venues. The music is rich and dreamy, sometimes haunting, and the artist is as multi-dimensional as the tunes he pens and writes.

When I first listened to this CD, I felt like I was experiencing some kind of magic – the music and lyrics reach the listener with ease and echo in your head afterward, leaving you wondering about the inspiration. I call that magic.

His fifth CD, Wildernessed is Burke’s favorite work of his own creations, the first of which was a 1978 album of avant-garde, edgy music. This latest CD opens with an upbeat-sounding “Dreamland,” which reminded me of a happy, though meaningful John Lennon piece. The CD winds it way through some dark pieces as well, but leaves the listener eagerly awaiting each next song. His interpretation of “Jennifer Juniper” is refreshing, and even “A Thirty Second Song About Suicide” (yes, that is the name of track No. 6) left me wishing it was more than 30 seconds long.

A native Oregonian, Burke’s bright eyes and witty, fast sense of humor make him a real presence on stage as well across the table from fans – I’ll call myself a new fan. His slow smile and pensive remarks make him a joy to listen to for those who have the opportunity to meet him.

What is really special about this musician is that he is also a successful, active photographer and has even merged the two talents in some terrific products.

1 | 2 Next Page >>