Annagail
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Annagail

Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States | Established. Jan 01, 2000 | SELF

Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States | SELF
Established on Jan, 2000
Duo Americana Singer/Songwriter

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"Folk Meets Modern"

Annagail is a band comprised of independent talents that have merged folk with modern. There is nothing stale here. It is all alive. From harmonies that hold their own melodies, to guitar riffs that dance across frets, while maintaining open arms to welcome each listener to find meaning and a temporary shelter in their songs. Their passion for life, love and
music, is the peaceful conductor of all they do.

-Valerie Smith
KANZ 91.1fm
- HPPR Radio


"Creatively Flavored"

Linger In Bloom is aptly named. From the first track to the last, Annagail carries you on a musical journey filled with reflection, raw honesty, surrender, admiration, struggle and celebration-all places we “linger in bloom” as children of God trying to be more like Him. Make no mistake, this is a rock album. It is creatively flavored with fresh lyrics and unique instrumentation. Some songs creatively infuse the mandolin and harmonica while others are tempered with a bit of modern day folk. My favorite attribute of Annagail is the bands ability to shine with different musical sounds and styles. Jennifer and Jared share lead vocals which puts the band in a class where few are blessed to be. Yes, its a rock album with mass appeal. Annagail's gifted songwriting and their ability to “mix it up” is shown from the contemplative “Close Your Eyes” to the fun, uplifting “Song That Never Ends”. All in all, this is a great record for everyone.

Jeff Geisel
Music Buyer
Baker Book House
- Baker Book House


"Life and living through it"

For those who have followed Annagail through their days as Route 3 to the present, Linger In Bloom is the culmination of a period of hard work and dedication to an idea. As the husband/wife duo of Jared and Jennifer Adams have gone through relocation, various band members, and the birth of their first child, they have morphed into more introspective songwriters and a more cohesive musical unit. Their songs celebrate their faith, the overcoming of trials, and their love for each other in a way that displays a deep understanding of life and living through it. While the album maintains many of Route 3’s Americana/Folk and Rock influences, it introduces a touch more of a pop element and more of an emphasis on Jennifer’s vocals and male/female vocal harmonies, allowing the album a bit more of an edge and accessibility in today’s market. That, along with solid musicianship and a commitment to sincere songwriting, is what will move them ahead of their peers.

Matthew Scott
Owner
Lemonjello’s (coffeehouse & venue)
Holland, MI
lemonjellos.com
- Lemonjellos


"Reflections on a Lemonjellos’ gig"

Want to scare a musician? Skip the lighting, put your audience two feet away from the mic, sing and play guitar while your drummer remains tucked in the corner, about one foot from you.

There is no room for error here. Everyone will see it and hear it. Fortunately for Annagail, they have a wealth of concert experience. In a coffeehouse that is packed with 50 people they played like it was for 3,000. Coffeehouse singers are a dime a dozen, but Annagail is a not a coffee house band. It just happens to be a band that will play anywhere and anytime. The Adams’ love for music is evident. They were probably going to be playing that night anyway, so why not do it for some folks who probably had no idea how good it was going to get.

Annagail’ songwriting and vocals have captured plenty of national attention through recordings and concerts. In the intimate setting of a coffeehouse Annagail shows the talent is authentic, not studio created. With the ability to adapt to any venue, they show themselves as consummate professionals – more worried about the audience than their ego.

The set included many new songs and some classics from previous recordings, including the Don Chaffer (Waterdeep) produced “Slightly Certain.” From that title cut to “The Final Say” they created a full sound, much to the delight of the crowd gathered inside on a Saturday night. They also have the veteran performer’s gift of knowing how to banter with the audience without thinking they are standup comics at the same time. They know they are there for the music, and good music does not require explanations.

This is a group to catch live, whether the Adams’ front it alone or with a full band in tow. Any venue, any time – this group is worth the trip.

-Derek Emerson
Hope College Arts Coordinator
Holland Michigan - Hope College


"The Real Deal"

Annagail have captured the ears and minds of thousands throughout America. One of those people was myself, Levi Perkins, host of Crossroads on 107.9 FM KZLS. Many bands have the beat or the image, but are missing the depth and meaning behind their music. Annagail has found the meaning of music. The ability to tell you what only your mind can visualize. Annagail says what many of us want to say about life but fear the rejection of saying it.

Slightly Certain, their latest release and title song, deals with the ability to tell the truth and the journey we go on to find it. The first line of Slightly Certain tells the story of society "There's a certain burden with telling the truth especially if others are listening." No one but singer/songwriter Adams and producer/frontman for Waterdeep, Don Chaffer, combine hard hitting lyrics and the chords that make this release smashing. Annagail's Slightly Certain lays down track after track of solid music you will definitely come back to. The bands ability to be diverse with each song is a true sign of their ability as artists. They blend sounds of Rock, Folk, AC, into a masterpiece of music. Adams has written soulful ballads time and again and he continues to improve with each and every album.

Each DJ has their own special set of songs they hold fast. My personal top four picks are the title track Slightly Certain, The Enemy and the Avenger, The Final Say, and Mystery at Boiling.
To any radio programmers play it, to any concert promoter book them, and to any music label, sign them now. This is the real deal. Annagail has everything and their journey to the top has only begun. For the fans sit back, relax, and enjoy.

-Levi Perkins
Cross Roads/107.9 fm KZLS - Cross Roads 107.9 fm KZLS


"Feedback"

Gifted songwriting...Annagail carries you on a musical journey filled with reflection, raw honesty, surrender, admiration, struggle and celebration...a band in a class where few are blessed to be.
-Jeff Geisel Music Manager, Baker Book House

Their songs celebrate faith, the overcoming of trials, and love in a way that displays a deep understanding of life and living through it...that, along with solid musicianship and a commitment to sincere songwriting, is what will move them ahead of their peers.
-Matt Scott Owner/Promoter, Lemonjellos

“Creative style and lyrics…always resolving into a deep and soulful acoustic set.”
-Jonathan Itchon Online Music Review

“Annagail delivers heartfelt songs in the context of a band whose zeal is the kind reserved for the young and passionate. They’ve taken a large leap forward not only in the caliber of writing and playing, but also in the whole band’s ability to adopt a corporate identity in the music, an accomplishment few bands have the vision and humility to do.”
-Don Chaffer Waterdeep.com

"Jared is a great singer with a great sense of melody and a desire to touch the souls of those he plays for. I respect him as a musician and a writer and I am blessed to call him my friend."
-Mitch McVicker MitchMcVicker.com

“...Sophisticated garage band style...no nonsense lyrics, dynamic vocals and edgy experimental sounds.”
-Grassroots Music Distribution

"Annagail is a band comprised of independent talents that have merged folk with modern. There is nothing stale here. It is all alive. From harmonies that hold their own melodies, to guitar riffs that dance across frets, while maintaining open arms to welcome each listener to find meaning and a temporary shelter in their songs. Their passion for life, love and
music, is the peaceful conductor of all they do."
-Valerie Smith 90.5fm KZNA

“Annagail has found the meaning of music. The ability to tell you what only your mind can visualize and then taking it a step further, they say what many of us want to about life but fear the rejection of saying it.”
-Levi Perkins ‘Crossroads’ 107.9fm KZLS

“Dynamic acoustic guitar playing with engaging vocals and harmonies…Annagail has produced a sound that is original, genuine and has great appeal.”
-Lynn Boitano Program Director 91.1fm KANZ

"Original and compelling, Annagail gives you something to relate to and leaves you wanting more. A definite must have.
-Kristi Hahn ‘Silver Rails’ 90.5fm KZNA

“...Innovative and heartfelt.”
-Sawlogs & Strings Folk Festival

They have such potential. This will take them way beyond the boundaries of Kansas.”
-Darren Tyler CEO Integrity Management

“Kansas’ best alternative rock band.”
Richard Falcon CEO Damage Records

“With a blend of Folk and Rock this group weaves its way through a musical experience sure to please. Candy to the mind.”
-Paul Burtner CEO Big Round Records

“This band takes the cake! One of our favorites.
-Ray Rush Promoter, Olive Branch Coffeehouse - Promoters/Labels/Fellow Artists


Discography

Linger In Bloom // 2007
Produced by Don Chaffer, (Waterdeep, Sara Groves, Charlie Hall, Maeve, This Holiday Life, The Voice I and II) Mixed by Russ Long (Wilco, Over the Rhine, Newsboys, Sixpence None The Richer, and even Dolly Parton!) Features "Beautiful Irony," and "Close Your Eyes," current fan and radio favorites.

Elevation Live // 2005
This live album, produced by Jared and Jennifer Adams, donates half of the proceeds from sales to 'Vox United,' an organization helping to end famine, AIDS and poverty in South Africa.

The Subtle Sessions // 2002
Produced by Tim Suttle, this 4 song EP captures a reinvention of the band. With "Song That Never Ends," being sung at churches and youth groups around the country.

Integrity Management/Booking Compilation // 1999
The Final Say from the Slightly Certain release is featured on this national compilation put out by Integrity Management and Booking.

Slightly Certain // 1998
Produced By Don Chaffer and featuring a guest vocal performance by Waterdeep's Lori Chaffer. Featuring the title track and "Enemy & the Avenger" which have received considerable college and public radio airplay still.

Renaissance Recital // 1995
The sophomore effort of Route 3, also produced by Alan Shalby, featuring the unstoppable college radio hit 'Pretty Alone.'

The Folks // 1994
Produced by Alan Shalby, with the radio gem, "It Rained Today."

Photos

Bio

They’ve always defied and stretched genres, equal parts singer/songwriters and rock band.  Thinking man’s Americana.  Pop for philosophers?  Country for the curious? Rock for the recluse?  Whatever you call them, Annagail weave heartache and hope for the disillusioned.  “Its not uncommon for me to listen to The Cure and Steve Earl back to back…before breakfast,” Jared has said of their fluid style.

8 albums deep, a blend of courage and frailty are embraced and they’re proud of both.  2021 brought two nerw albums, ‘Home’ and “Baby, It’s You.” As the world entered the pandemic, Annagail embraced the dread of the unknown and paradox of studio solace afforded by quarantine.  From lush strings, pianos, searing guitar solos and vocals fit to weep over – to a lonely harmonica accompanied by delicate finger picking and accordion.

A live abum, recorded at the famed listening room, Seven Steps Up drops soon and they recently released a 40 minute documentary chronicling their last 2 decades as a band and making of the album ‘Home.’  

Their EP, The Cabin Sessions, produced and recorded with Nashville hit-maker Keith Follese’ (Lady Antebellum, Faith Hill, Katy Perry, Emerson Drive) is a glimpse into the influences of their songs. Electronic flourishes meet undeniable rootsy hooks.  On numerous compilations and even a feature film soundtrack (‘Decision’ starring CCM vocalist Natalie Grant and country artist, Billy Dean) they’re an established act.  Opening for YAM Haus, Plumb, Pillar, Bleach, Superhero, Jason Ingram, Satellite Soul, The Appleseed Cast, Christopher Williams, Jennifer Knapp, Ellery, VOTA, Valentiger and many others.

Annagail desire to create meaningful moments. “The gig doesn’t validate us,” says Jennifer. “Sharing what we’re compelled to do and what makes us feel alive is the motivation…Music can’t be touched, but can touch.”

Band Members