The defiant, never quit attitude is a lifelong theme for blue-collar songwriter, Jared Deck, and dominates his new album, Bully Pulpit. Deck released his eponymous debut album in 2016 to critical acclaim from outlets such as Rolling Stone Country and American Songwriter. He won First Place in the Woody Guthrie Folk Festival Songwriting Contest for his song, The "American Dream." However, with his follow-up record, he wanted to unmask further, include more of his influences, and open up his voice. "After the debut, I still had more to say - more stories to tell. Additionally, I've often compartmentalized my different musical influences; I kept the gospel at church and the country at the honky-tonk. With Bully Pulpit, I tore down those walls to expose a more ruthless honesty about myself, my experiences, and my reflections on the world around me." From gospel shouts to country croons, Bully Pulpit showcases Deck's road-ripened voice. "From Where I Fall" - a heartbreaking country tale of how tragic loss can divide a home - to "True Believer" - a stern gospel-esque warning of false prophets and politicians, Jared's voice puts a shine to otherwise coarse subjects. While the folky "Make Your Mama Proud" provides a glimpse of tenderness, "Great American Breakdown" showcases Deck's gritty rock-n-roll side. A timeless ballad, "Sometimes I Miss Being Lonely" fetches a new perspective of holiday blues, and "Over and Over" finishes the album like a benedictory hymn. Jared returned to 115 Recording in Norman, OK to work with Grammy-nominated producer, Wes Sharon (John Fullbright, Parker Millsap, Turnpike Troubadors). "Wes has become a musical partner. We discuss how life affects what we create and share our favorite records with each other, simultaneously expanding our horizons and sharpening our connection." For Bully Pulpit, Sharon convened such accomplished musicians as Turnpike Troubadours' Gabe Pearson (drums) and Hank Early (pedal steel), along with Dan Walker (organ), who plays for Ann Wilson of Heart, and members of Deck's backing band, The Travelers. The background vocals of Oklahoma treasures Chanda Graham and Myra Beasley add the final Polish to this soulful album.
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