"Denison Witmer's "River Bends" EP stands out as an oasis of clarity in an otherwise synth-driven, beat-conscious marketplace that churns out beefcake boy bands and "alterna-girrrlls" as quickly as you can say Brittany. The fact that Denison is a mere 22 years old is amazing because he possesses a voice that is seasoned, plaintive, and true. It's just he and his guitar. He is not buried under the weight of glossy production. The music is sparse. Above all, it is intimate. As Denison laments in "Steven" (a goodbye to a cherished friendship) "simple chords are lovely, simple words are heartfelt". Lovely, indeed. So, when your head is jammed and its all beginning to sound like white noise, kick back and spend an hour with Denison. Cheapest therapy I know of."
Better than nothing and nothing is better...
hcjoel | Stoney Creek, Ontario | 12/16/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Jonah's onelinedrawing said that. Nothing is better than a Denison Witmer album. I first heard this EP, before his full-length, and I fell head-over-heels in love with it. The full-length deepened my infatuation with Denison's beautifully simple yet lush sound, his personal and touching lyrics and sweet voice. Don Peris (of Vigilantes of Love, I believe) brings out Denison's brilliance on the production end. I cannot get enough of him. I look forward to growing old with Denison's music."
Hauntingly quiet poetry song with heart. Moving and lovely
cakeater | 09/18/1999
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Sung in a sweet, strong voice that resignates over the simplisity of an accoustic guitar accompaniment, Denison Witmer's EP "River Bends" has filled my home with quiet warmth. It is charming and moving in it's purity and clean delivery of songs about love, friendship and change. There is a sense of real people, places and feelings in Denison Witmer's writing. He take's us along on his journey. He takes us on a Sunday. Down to watch the quiet waters run. Down to where the river bends. A wonderful EP."
Breath taking simplicity
cakeater | 10/28/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"an encouragement to this new guitar player; a role model that does not feel far removed. lyrics that are poetic, yet not too deep to grasp.even though i have all the cd's i am going to buy the rerelease of 'safe away' just for the additional two songs they are adding!"
Wang chum it's not.
cakeater | Lancaster, Pa | 04/13/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Denison has yet again captured the thoughts and feelings of human existance and managed to reciprocate them into song. there is a lot to be said for a 22 year old that can gain the respect of his peers thorugh his voice and a acusitcal guitar. a evening watching and listening to denison is always a intimate and soothing experience. like damien juardo, i have seen him break through predetermined musical tastes and become accepted by fans of all musical genres. don perris (the innocence mission, not vol) adds just the right amount of background instrumentation to accentuate the songs without drowning them out. i have watched denison's music develop thoughout the years and can honestly say it keeps getting better. i highly recommend the album, and if you see he's going to be playing anywhere near you, it is well worth the drive and admission. also, be on the lookout for a new ep midsummer."