By Nora E. Lindner
Rating: 9/11

“We are guys that love to play music that we like,” say Chris Stanfield and the Naturals. A bold statement from a little band based in Greensboro, NC, but judging by what they’ve produced so far, the music these guys like is good.

Thoroughly modern and enticingly retro — that’s the best way to describe Chris Stanfield and the Naturals. A local favorite, the band’s current lineup includes Chris Stanfield (Lead Vocals/Lead Guitar), Grant Prewette (Bass Guitar/Vocals) and John Michael Harris (Rhythm Guitar). Their music is eclectic and rich. “1 More Minute” could be a Tom Petty cover, while “59” could have been The Wallflowers long-awaited second hit single. It seems that Stanfield (credited with writing most of the band’s repertoire) can induce nothing less than that often strived for, rarely achieved, feel-good rock for the gaggle of dedicated regulars that tag along with the guys on the Greensboro’s bars and clubs circuit.

The band’s greatest feat thus far is the song, “Cry Cry Cry.” By all accounts this should sound like a modern cover of a Carl Perkins song, but there’s a spark to it that makes it more — and instead of reminiscing about a time when treading on a pair of blue suede shoes was the ultimate party foul, you’re there, hearing that spark-ignited Rock ‘n’ Roll America — whether you were there the first time or not.

But don’t try to label these boys just yet. They’ve also got a quiet ballad that is strikingly contemporary. The lyrics alone sting with vulnerability and the emotion is as raw as the mix. It’s hard not to let Stanfield’s honest intonations under your skin as he sings, “Oh, Bill Murray, why are you so sad?” That’s right — this song is about Bill Murray. If that doesn’t bring a few tears of compassion, try listening to it after re-watching Groundhog’s Day.

The Naturals currently have no music available for download, but can be seen playing pretty regularly in and around Greensboro. At this time they are still unsigned, but it’s hard to imagine they’ll stay so for long.