Indie Artists You Should Know...Ace Noface

Lately, because of my blog, I've been fortunate enough to listen to new music from tons of independent artists. While my preferences generally lean more towards top 40 and dance/electronica music, this doesn't mean that I close myself off to all types of music. I plan on spotlighting 1 - 2 indie artists per week that either inspire me because of their music, or inspire me because of their story. Here's one artist that I've been turned onto recently that I think others should know as well.

Ace Noface - Pure Piano Rock for the Brave- Accompanying many of the CDs I've received have been various promotional materials - T-Shirts, Mardi Gras Beeds, Stickers, Posters, etc. Oftentimes, less is more. In the case of East Lansing-based Ace Noface, I happened to read the note accompanying the press release. It's words were matter of fact and to the point:
"You'd better hurry up and play this CD, because if you wait too long, I won't be able to talk to you about it. I have Lou Gehrig's disease, which will rob me of the ability to speak."

Wow. You don't need to ask me twice! Having a parent with Lou Gehrig's Disease (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or ALS), I know all too well of the disease's ability to rob. I didn't need to read anymore...I was sold.

In listening to the songs on Toxic Charm, I can hear the strain in his voice. It's heartbreaking, yet empowering all at the same time. My mother's form of ALS robbed her of her mental capacity, rendering unable to think or communicate effectively and unable to control her emotions. It's also taken it's toll physically as she is not able to walk, stand or do virtually anything by herself. She is essentially a shell. For Ace to be stricken with the very same illness that has taken my Mother hostage, and still be able to sing...I can't help but be amazed.

Formerly the bassist for an indie-rock band, Ace was diagnosed with ALS in 2005, which understandably sent his life spiraling in another direction completely. As devastating as the diagnosis was, with the help of friends, Ace pushed through and continues to make music with the aid of new technology and computer software. According to Ace (via his website), "When I'm writing music or lyrics, I completely get lost in it - I forget that I have any kind of disability."

Toxic Charm is a beautifully put together piano-rock album. Each song oozes with personality, pain, love, anger..every emotion you could possibly imagine. It's very clear that this album was a labor of love. Truly inspirational.

Download These Tracks: Whiskey Bottle, 2000 Bikes, Concept, Mercy

Check out Ace Noface on the web: Official Site//Myspace//Facebook//Twitter//YouTube