Ten Penny Gypsy is Making a Scene

October 9, 2020

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Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Ten Penny Gyspy

Arkansas singer/songwriters Justin Patterson and Laura Lynn Danley had been writing and performing separately as solo artists for years when they decided to form the Folk/Americana duo Ten Penny Gypsy in 2017. That decision changed their fortunes immediately, and put their musical careers onto a new and exciting trajectory.

In 2018, “Ten Penny Gypsy,” their self-titled debut album, was nominated for “Album of the Year” at the Arkansas Country Music Awards. The group garnered additional Arkansas CMA nominations for “Americana Artist of the Year” and “Vocal Group of the Year” in both 2018 and 2019.

Ten Penny Gypsy is looking to build on that success in 2020 with the release of their second full-length album, “Fugitive Heart,” a collection of original songs once again produced by renowned multi-instrumentalist Anthony Crawford. In addition, the album prominently features the talents of 2020 Arkansas CMA nominee Buddy Case (Guitarist of the Year).

Recorded over several sessions in 2019 at Crawford’s studio in Loxley, AL, “Fugitive Heart” is an eclectic, upbeat album combining Americana and Country/Blues sounds, that thematically explores the uncertainties of separation. Listeners will find the songs immediately relatable, considering the isolation created by the current global health crisis and national political climate.

“I don’t think it’s coincidence that these songs came together at this time to form such a poignant collection,” says Justin Patterson, writer of seven of the album’s tracks. “There’s no doubt they belong in 2020, considering how far apart people currently feel from everything and everybody. The distances grew so fast, it was a difficult surprise for many to process.”

It’s of no surprise to many how well the divergent songwriting styles of Justin Patterson and Laura Lynn Danley blended into such an acclaimed sound over a relatively short period of time.

“Justin Patterson reminds me of what would happen if James Taylor and Gordon Lightfoot had a love child,” muses David Hughes, a promoter with Unknown Legends Artists. “He writes insightful, heartfelt, and intelligent lyrics. He is a refreshing voice and talented writer.”

“Laura is very reminiscent of Tammy Wynette or Joni Mitchell,” says Anthony Crawford, producer of both Ten Penny Gypsy albums. “She has that intriguing and infectious personality, with a certain vulnerability that draws you in.”

Crawford’s opinions carry weight. He’s a globally respected veteran of the music industry, having recorded and performed with such musical icons as Neil Young (The Shocking Pinks and International Harvesters), Steve Winwood, and Dwight Yoakam.

“Their songs and everything they do is at a high level of professionalism,” Crawford continues. “Justin is a thoughtful lyricist and a very proficient guitarist. Laura really challenged herself on ‘Fugitive Heart.’ She brought so much to the table as a singer. They make a great team.”

“Fugitive Heart” was released on July 10, 2020. Look for the music of Ten Penny Gypsy on all streaming services, and in local retail music stores around the country.