"...In Clover was next. I had heard this was a cover band, so I was surprised to hear them do so many originals. They were excellent. Good solid beat that moves you across the asphalt, even if you weren't planning on going anywhere, a kind of rocking roots thing..."
"...the ever so happy In Clover came on. They sounded really tight, like they had been playing together forever...the bass player was really cool..."
"...We returned to the Lost Sock in time to see In Clover. There were many new faces at the sock to see them. The foundation of this 'twenty-something, Gen X, we're so happy' sounding band is the drummer, who, with only hi-hat, snare and floor drum, proved that less is more."
"While listening to IN CLOVER's new CD Music for Silent Films it becomes apparent that lead singer, writer, and guitarist Tara Lane does a lot to breathe some life into a tired genre: that of the female fronted bands. Her lyrics stay away from the cliche' relationship-based songs that so many female artists depend on. Instead they are filled with small, slice-of-life-based imagery. Sonicly, the band fits somewhere between the Cranberries and say, Lucinda Williams. 'In Clover' would fit in nicely as a second stage artist at the Lilith fair. Although the band's playing and arrangements are somewhat simplistic at times, I'm sure that with a proper producer, this could be quite a commercially successful act. They have a continuity in song structure and style that makes them unique, original, and accessible."
"Rating: 4 out of 5. Formerly known as Skuttlebutt, the band decided on the name change to signify a break from their past, as well as a new level of maturity as a group. They call themselves a modern rock band, but I wouldn't be surprised to hear them classified in an electric folk manner. Vocalist and guitarist Tara Lane mixes her acoustic guitar into almost all the songs to give the sound a comfortable feel, more of an adult rock sound, even though the opportunity to turn it up a bit presents itself often. She seems at home singing each of the different styles and tempos, and proves herself worthy of national attention with a strong performance. Her Indigo Girls influence is evident in the acoustic and vocal driven "The Wake", but even more so in the jangly folk cut "Fading Past", complete with really nice harmonies and Scott Gordon's dulcimer. You'll catch a dose of catchy quirk/pop as well with "Salt 'n' Vinegar" and "Sink and Shock", two of the better cuts in this collection. They've had success on a local level, finishing as one of the finalists of 250 entries in a '97 contest, and it may just be a matter of time before that success spreads to a much larger degree. Top Cuts: Fading Past, Roadrunner Patrol, Salt 'n' Vinegar."
"Rating: 7 out of 10. The bio sheet says "..if you don't like Sheryl Crow, Indigo Girls, Sarah McLachlan..." then we may not like In Clover. Actually, I really don't care for any of the above groups, but I did like In Clover. Music for Silent Films is a fun record, and it sounds like they had fun making it. This isn't complicated stuff, to be sure, but it's well played, well sung, and the lyrics are clever often enough to keep us listening. I dug most of this, but especially After Today and All My Days. In Clover isn't all that unique, but doing what you do well is more than half the battle."
"In Clover, a band that's quick to point out that "love" is their middle name, have revealed themselves with Music For Silent Films to be one of the smartest rock bands around. Moving freely from solemn folk rock reminiscent of Richard Thompson to funky rock numbers, In Clover stand as one of the more adventurous bands out there, willing to take risks and often making them work. The effect is often marvelous. A song like Fading Past, with its pretty melody and wonderful harmonies, takes the band to Indigo Girls territory in style, but they can also pull a funk driven rocker like After Today out of their bag of tricks. "Evocative" is what In Clover goes for - styles matching songs, rhythms matching moods. Roadrunner Patrol, indeed featuring sound bites from that smart ass bird we all wish would get caught, features some wonderful work between the acoustic and electric guitars. Lead Guitarist Scott Gordon's instincts come to the fore here.
Vocalist/guitarist Tara Lane, who will probably be hounded by the likes of Spin Magazine for interviews in a year or two, delivers several wonderful vocal performances to go along with a songwriting ability that is truly impressive. All My Days is probably the highlight in this regard, coupling a folk rock delivery with a dreamy melody that makes the whole song a listening "experience", right down to the somber "what's-the-world-coming-to" theme. Silver Chain's exploration of self-awareness in relationships is another track benefiting from Lane's delivery. A multi-talented band, In Clover's drummer, Ryan Gryder, provides some great chugging drums here while Gordon lets a fondness for the "prettier" side of early Allman Brothers provide some lovely touches.
The band also loves to play, hence a retro surf rock workout like Salt 'n' Vinegar and the stellar Betcha, where Karen Shealy's bass especially shines (careful, In Clover - other bands will definitely try to steal Shealy away!). The biting attack on self-righteousness in rock and roll on Sink + Shock proves also that In Clover gets mad at all the right things. But all of these experiments are just that, with the band continuously returning to the folk rock that they do so well, most blatantly on the Celtic influenced The Wake, featuring some inspired drumming from Gryder....
Have I just gone on and on about a "pop" record? Well, not really. In Clover's agenda is to stay within rock's framework but to leave a compelling memorable affect on the listener. For In Clover, the world is waiting...."
"The group is "in clover". No capital letters in their name. The music is modern rock. Not acid hard, not light, just rock. The CD concept is built around movie film. You hear the top of the film can hit the floor, the film being loaded at the beginning of the CD and also hear the film tab flapping at the end and the film being put back in its metal container. (I hope they rewound it first). This group has talent and energy. The music is good. The singing matches the music most of the time, in the first song, "After Today". Good acoustic and electric guitar, percussion, bass, Tara Lane's vocal expression is unlimited. The next one - "Fading Past". A little softer song. Third song - "Roadrunner Patrol", probably the best on the CD (not just because of the beep beep roadrunner sound kicking it off). It is fast with plenty of energy and Tara is expressing with more versatility and emotion. Now I'm into the music. Head moving, foot tapping. (Difficult when you are a right foot tapper and you are driving to work). I really like this song. I listen to it again. Next song - "All My Days". Good pace. There she goes again. Expressing vocally with great musical accompaniment. Even vocally backing herself up. I like this group. When Tara Lane stretches and gets into the music it's very enjoyable. I also like "Salt 'n' Vinegar". I'm having fun listening to this CD. Now comes the whistling during the intermission track and I'm actually laughing. I try whistling the same tune. It's funny. Plenty of energy also in the rest of the songs. I'm not normally a modern rock listener, but I enjoyed this group. Very talented. For information about this band visit their website at: http://www.onsitenet.net/inclover"
"Rating: 80 (Excellent)"
"Music for Silent Films is a very strong album with female vocals slightly similar to 10,000 Maniacs. It's upbeat, interesting, and dynamic. Each song holds distinctive quality, and it's easy to imagine a captivating live performance. [Tara Lane's] voice soars throughout an excellent range and easily accomplishes some interesting melodic experimentation. I personally believe that their music is better than that of a lot of mainstream female vocalists. Tara remains interesting, and puts some emotion into her music, which is becoming rarer as female pop becomes worse. I think that's what most people are missing. They are trying too hard to be cool while they forget that music is supposed to be a soulful experience. I think that is what makes this band different. The backups are unusually strong, and have many counter melodies that keep the listener interested. Instead of fronting an acoustic setup, the singer can rise above a full band. The weaving of music remains a difficult task to accomplish, but they balance the two into a fully satisfying listening experience. It's refreshing to hear a decent female singer, and I think that everyone who enjoys good music should take a soulful journey into the music of In Clover."
LOCAL PLAYERS MAKE GOOD - THEIR ALBUMS COMING TO A STORE NEAR YOU
"Whoever says Virginia isn't a viable music hub hasn't checked the local artist section of their favorite record store lately. Granted, not many of our Shockoe Bottom faves have cracked the national marketplace with the intensity of the Dave Matthews Band or Bruce Hornsby, but at least they're trying.
That said, it would be impossible to mention every local and regional artist in the plethora of new releases this spring, so here is a quick glance at some noteworthy works.
...IN CLOVER, "Music for Silent Films"
There was a reason the band formerly known as Skuttlebutt was a finalist in last year's XL102 "Decent Exposure" band competition.
Pick a song, any song on their 13-track debut (though some are instrumental fragments) and try not to sing along. From the spirited "Roadrunner Patrol" (complete with an inimitable "meep, meep" from the cartoon Roadrunner) to the endemic "Salt 'n' Vinegar," a desperate plea for returned affection, In Clover is one of the best folk/rock/pop bands in the area.
The Richmond-based quartet is gaining a sizable following along the frat circuit with shows combining originals and covers, but there really shouldn't be a need for covers.
Singer Tara Lane claims The Indigo Girls as a major influence on her songwriting, and their affect is abundantly clear on harmonically rich songs such as "The Wake," which shuffles along with foot-stomping electricity, and the narrative "All My Days."
Lane and bandmates Scott Gordon (guitar), Karen Shealy (bass) and Ryan Gryder (drums, the band's second skin pounder who left in 1995 and returned), deserve credit for crafting material that might not be groundbreaking, but is nonetheless well-written and infinitely melodic."
"...In Clover took the stage late in the eventing to the great anticipation of the crowd. Their set was memorable for several reasons. First, I haven't seen that much blood at one show since the last time Gwar played the Flood Zone. Scott Gordon, In Clover's lead guitarist, sliced his hand open just prior to the gig and throughout the evening a trail of blood followed him wherever he went, running crimson streams down the faces of his instruments and leaving a permanent stain as a memento of the show. A consummate performer, he finished the set before seeking medical attention.
During their song "The Wake," the audience worked themselves into a frenzy as Gordon flailed, then beat, his ducimer into submission while the other band emmbers creatively turned nearby objects into percussion instruments. During "Salt and Vinegar," they hurled bags of potato chips into the audience, hitting one intoxicated female in the head, but she didn't notice.
The godfather of the local recording industry, Mark Miley, made an appearance before the show ended and was recognized from the stage for his work on the CD. In Clover then finished with a kick ass version of Rage Against the Machines' 'Bulls on Parade'."
"Behold the great female fronted modern rock band from Richmond, VA! Last year In Clover (formerly Skuttlebutt) participated in Richmond's "Decent Exposure '97", in which they placed 4th out of the 250 bands who entered. Vocalist Tara Lane voice in the vein of Natalie Merchant and the Indigo Girls. "Fading Past" provides harmonies with an Irish feel to it at a mid-tempo pace. "Roadrunner Patrol" is a dancable up-tempo tune with grooving bass lines by Karen Shealy. "All My Days" is a solid ballad ready for radio play! "Sink + Shock" I really enjoyed - kind of like Go-Go's meet surf rock!
I am fond of this cd overall, and I would highly recommend it. I was also browsing their press release of cover songs they do along with originals live, and I may be going to see them soon! Lots of 80's covers ... along with some popular 90's tunes."
"Hands down, In Clover wins the award for the most unique combination of title, CD and design cover. The disc is imprinted to resemble a film reel and the inside of the jewel case contains a photo of the arm of a film projector.
When the disc is put away, it appears as if you are loading the film reel. In the first track, "Roll Film," you year the canister open, reel loaded, and the projector start.
Appropriately enough, "Intermission" arrives at the midpoint of the disc. However, this finger picked guitar interlude is not a good time to head for the snack counter because in less than 90 seconds, the rocker "Sink + Shock" kicks in. The final track signals the end with the sound of film slapping against the projector as the reel slows to a stop.
Between all this is ten original compositions. From the acoustic "Fading Past" with its string dulcimer and harmonies reminiscent of the Indigo Girls to the funk feel of "Betcha" and the hard-edged "Home (Insulation Song)," there is something here to please almost everyone.
Guest appearances by Michael Ellerman and Gordy Haab add a tight horn section to "Roadrunner Patrol" and Nathan Brown and Greg Garner contribute piano to "All My Days" and "Silver Chain" respectively. Tara Lane displays a wide vocal range, which is particularly good in the higher end such as in "All My Days." Ryan Gryder lays a strong rhythmic foundation while Karen Shealy moves from finger-style to slap bass with aplomb, and Scott Gordon adds tasteful leads and fills.
"Music for Silent Films" is a great CD, surprisingly so for a first effort. Well-constructed lyrics, melodic tunes, and immaculate production result in a CD that will stay in your player for a long time.
Roll film."
CLOSER TO CLOVER
In Clover's Tara Lane has known Scott Gordon, the lead guitarist, and Karen Shealy, the bass player, for six years, and they found a groove playing together in the band Skuttlebutt. The line-up now includes drummer Ryan Gryder. The music is a collaboration, but Tara is the primary lyricist. She counts the Indigo Girls, especially their song "Closer to Fine," as her primary influence, "because if it weren't for them, I would never have learned how to sing and play guitar at the same time."Shawn Colvin inspires me to be a better musician because she's just so darned good, and even though it took her awhile, she finally made it," Tara said. "heart is another inspiration, more than an influence, and Fleetwood Mac, too, just because they were pioneers for bands with coed members that could rock out as well as any of the all-male bands at the time. Fleetwood Mac is a huge songwriting influence, the way they put songs together and mix genres and formats is incredible. I strive for our music to reach that same level of eclecticism without losing its identity."
In Clover's CD, "Music for Silent Films," is due out in January and was recorded at Montana. Tara explains the CD "resembles a soundtrack in that each song has a unique sound and a definitive direction, sort of like life."
Their back catalog includes two EP cassettes. "We didn't think they sucked at the time, we just think so now, in comparison to the stuff we're doing. It took us awhile to really learn how to play our instruments. Scott and Karen and I have really grown musically as individuals and as a band, and the stuff we're doing now only vaguely resembles the old stuff, even though we're still doing some of the songs. This is really why we changed the name of the band, to make that distinction.
FAVORITE VOCALIST: #1 - Tara Lane, In Clover
BAND FESTS OFFER SMORGASBORD OF MUSIC TALENT
"...But of the other finalists... I must say that those young lads in Copper Sails and the mixed-gender In Clover (formerly Skuttlebutt) were most impressive...As for In Clover, what a remarkable acoustic rock band. As Skuttlebutt, the band culled a respectable following around town the past five years. Now that the band's changed its name (to reflect a new sense of direction and clearer focus), it might take some time for new fans to draw the connection, but it is strongly suggested that they draw it quickly.
While the focal point of In Clover is singer/guitarist Tara Lane, who calmly battled some sound problems early in the set, the band's warm sound wouldn't be nearly as attractive without the rest of the quartet. In Clover plays a benefit show at the Flood Zone on Sept. 19."
FAVORITE DRUMMER: #1 - Ryan Gryder, In Clover
FAVORITE BASS: #1 - Karen Shealy, In Clover
"One of the few good things that came out of May was the re-emergence of Skuttlebutt. Abbott Promotions had the pleasure of hosting a show at the Moondance on May 22 with Skuttlebutt, and I must say, they did a great job. A good number of people showed up for the Thursday night performance and Skuttlebutt performed admirably, especially since a few of them, including Tara, the lead singer, were suffering from illnesses that could have led to a no-show.
They successfully ran through an all-original set and kept the audience clapping throughout, although I shouldn't forget their performance at Route 1 South. Overwhelmingly awesome is the only way I can describe it!
Once again, the crowd was excited and cheering the entire show. They also rushed to get the free demo tapes being offered by the band. Amazingly, they managed to pack the place and kept everyone's attention, after the normally conservative Cary Street Cafe was handed an opening hardcore/punk band that drove most of the audience out before [IN CLOVER] even got started."
"...We joined former band Skuttlebutt, now IN CLOVER, in progress, and mingled in the crowd with guys who just like to see girls play instruments and guys who could see beyond that and thought the band was 'tight'. They politely ended their set, which seemed to be running a little behind schedule, to find the next band wasn't ready... In Clover graciously did an encore, then another, and another."
Best Performances:
T Minus 2, Thelma Shook, Harry Gore and the Measles, IN CLOVER, Grumbledog, Bitterlily, Vulvaboy, Susan Greenbaum, Armwood, Janet Martin Band, Dumm DummsBest Guitar:
Kevin Inge (T Minus 2), SCOTT GORDON (IN CLOVER), Harry Gore (The Measles), Terry Garland, Eileen EdmondsBest Bass:
Keith MacPee (Grumbledog), Peter Bell (October), KAREN SHEALY (IN CLOVER)
"This deserves recommendation. Aside from the very likable recording, Skuttlebutt has persisted in marketing their talents in places as diverse as a Fan laundromat, The Lost Sock. Their gigs at the Sock impressed me. The raw courage required to pursue unlikely locations bleeds over into the craft of creating original music.
'Detour' shows promise in many areas beginning with 'Fading Past', a country/rock sounding song with a dulcimer that bears mention. Tara Lane emulates Linda Ronstadt's style of deep, rich vocals in the second track on this eight song cassette. When Tara's vocals are coupled with Karen's harmonies, it's reminiscent of Indigo Girls' appeal. Skuttlebutt has produced a collaborative project that is well-balanced... The best song goes to 'Silver Chain'. It is the most challenging and goes beyond that with an impressively original sound.
Skuttlebutt is a great Richmond band and this tape is sure to become a collector's item if their persistence pays off and takes them off the detour and onto the main drag."
"I like what Skuttlebutt is trying to do with an instrumental like 'Hell Hammer'. For a band
with two women, it has balls. 'Everything Stops' challenges Melissa Etheridge to a duel. Tara Lane's got a stronger alto vocal style, displayed nicely in 'Playing for Keeps'. Some songs, like 'Take My Hand', have a New Age meditation sound to it. Played quieter, you could use it for your massage therapy or ohmming sessions. But the rock continues with 'King of the Hill', which Paul McCartney could sing and you'd believe he wrote it. (No, we're not getting confused with 'Fool on the Hill', the 'King' song is much peppier.) 'Fading Past' sounds country. ...This is a hard-working band with a lot of talent that's off to a good start. Strong bass playing."
BEST FEMALE MUSICIAN OR ROCKER:
#1 - Tara Lane, Skuttlebutt
"...their original music is charming, and so is their stage performance, an assortment of Bonnie Raitt-flavored country folk to poppy Wet Sprocket rock, including interludes of a mountain dulcimer...It's nice to see girls who are able to handle their instruments with skill and still be relaxed enough to carry a show...."