Greg Nagy's "Fell Toward None" nominated for five Jammies

Greg Nagy's newest album "Fell Toward None" hopes to bring home five different awards at this year's WYCE Jammies, including album of the year, best blues album, outstanding male performance, best production/engineering, and best song of the year for "Still Means the World to Me."

Originally known as the guitarist for the Lansing-based blues band Root Doctor, Greg Nagy went on to earn a 2008 Blues Foundation Award nomination for Best New Artist with his 2009 debut solo album "Walk That Fine Thin Line." Nagy now shares his steady vocals and powerful blues rifts on his sophomore album "Fell Towards None." The LP exists somewhere between the traditional and the modern. Tracks like the darker sounds of "Fell Towards None" feature a soft and simple accompaniment, which provides a savvy contrast to the more upbeat tracks like "Be With You."

It's difficult to define Nagy's place within genres, which is a great indication of veteran musicianship. He includes the emotions of blues, the danceable swing of funk, the syncopated tinges of jazz, and the energetic force of rock throughout the entire album and sometimes even within the same song. Nagy isn't really a purist nor does he fall under the pop label. The album has the versatility to appeal to all audiences, but it's also specific enough so that it echoes authenticity.

Despite the group's name, Greg Nagy allows plenty of breathing room for the other band members. Drummer Kevin Depree showcases his pinpoint feel and prowess as a member of the Vic Firth education program. Bassist Jim Shaneberger shifts from casual bass lines to more melodic and quick-fingered grooves. Songwriter/keyboardist Jim Alfredson and The Motor City Horns create a balance and texture that adds exciting and generous element to every song they touch. Listen to them put their creative works together in the song "Let it Roll."

Greg Nagy is set to perform at this year's WYCE Jammies. They played at Founders Brewing Company over the summer, and it was impossible for the audience to take their eyes off the performance. The group showed a humble approach to their talent, and entertained the crowd like few can. During a drum solo, Depree played rudiments on people's tables and glasses and mixed in a few stick tricks. Shaneburger played a flashy and impressive jazz solo alone on stage, and Nagy played about a 20 minute solo that didn't let the crowd blink.