Max Poolman is a musician from the great tradition of Country/Rock/Folk singers and songwriters. It is a lineage that follows the history of modern music from Woody Guthrie to Bob Dylan, Ani DiFranco to Ryan Adams. They are artists, travelling from gig to gig armed only with their acoustic guitars and their stories. It is a tradition that Max and thousands like him carry on to this day.
There was a time not long ago in which the Amsterdam, Netherlands based singer was at risk of losing his membership to that most noble of musical clubs. Years ago he suffered a skateboarding accident which caused damage to his nervous system. The condition grew progressively worse over the years until he ultimately could no longer play his instrument. Determined to get back to the bar and coffee house stages, he spent a year fighting. After many therapies and surgery, he is back with new music and the itch to get out and play.
“Ocean Eyes” is Max Poolman’s latest single. The track is a mellow guitar, bass and drum groove. It’s a deeply human, organic vibe. The drums have a great room sound and there is some really tasteful electric guitar work. At the heart of the mix is Max with his acoustic guitar and soulful, world weary voice.
At first listen the tune sounds as though it could be a love song when Max sings, “You really know how to make me cry, giving me your ocean eyes.” But there is something more going on here. His story speaks of “napalm skies” and diamond mines, suggesting a broader view beneath the surface. The effect is haunting, and beautiful.
You can hear “Ocean Eyes” on the Deep Indie Dive playlist. Follow the links below to connect with Max Poolman. Get in the loop on all of his current and future projects.
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Max Poolman on the Deep Indie Dive playlist
