Pressing Strings + Drew Foust And The Wheelhouse

When music is given the benefit of instinct, imagination and inspiration, the results are guaranteed to be good. So it ought to come as no surprise that the critically-acclaimed Annapolis, Maryland-based trio, appropriately dubbed Pressing Strings, has infused those elements within their musical mantra since the beginning. The band — Jordan Sokel (Guitar, Vocals), Nick Welker (Bass, Vocals), and Justin Kruger (Drums, Vocals) — can trace its origins to Sokel’s initial fascination with some iconic influences, among them, the usual suspects — Bob Marley, Paul Simon, Bill Withers, Taj Mahal, Al Green, Otis Redding, Nick Drake etc., as well as some more contemporary artists like Ben Harper, The Black Keys, The Wood Brothers, Iron & Wine etc.

A natural soul singer and blues musician, Drew Foust’s music sounds like it’s made between the bleary hours of a rock bar’s last call and a southern preacher’s early morning prayer. Hand made, self-made and arranged in dramatic structure, the music is lyrical and rhythm driven, always pushing a feeling forward. His latest release, “Good Thing,” is inspired by the Memphis soul music from the 60’s and 70’s.