The Lone Star State of Texas and the world woke up to a new sound. Mark Denny Preston has released «Dodgin Bullets» and people are taking notice.

I invited Mark Denny Preston to be interviewed in this blog concerning «Dodgin Bullets». The rest is history.

1. What inspired you to record «Dodgin Bullets»?

Roberto,  the idea had been brewing for a while because we’ve got so many songs and they don’t always get heard by the general public. I say “We” because I consider my songwriting  a Team Effort. While I do write solo at times, I enjoy the synergy and quality that comes from writing with other great writers. Everyone knows the music business has changed so much over the last few years, and it’s definitely changed for songwriters. These days the public seems very receptive to a Songwriter’s stripped down version of a song. So the timing just felt right to put out my own Album and see what happens.

2. How long did it take you to record «Dodgin Bullets»?

My co-producer, Randy Carson, and I started the project late summer 2010 and finished recording the tracks in January 2011. Then it was sent to Nashville TN to have it Mixed and Mastered properly. We’ve just now got the finished product in hand. It’s more of a time consuming process than most realize.

3. What sets «Dodgin Bullets» apart from other Texas Country and Rock albums and Nashville?

 I wanted an Organic Acoustic sound from the beginning, and as the project started it began to develop a personality of it’s own. Besides Acoustic Guitar we added Fiddle, Mandolin and some basic percussion on a few songs so the instrumentation is like a Bluegrass Ensemble but the songs and lyrics are more Alternative and Traditional Country with some even having a Southern Rock flavor. Another aspect that makes it somewhat different is the use of Elemental Sound Effects scattered through the album. My co-writer, Tommy Southard, envisioned this idea of a cross between Pink Floyd and Traditional Country so he was the driving force behind the effects you hear. While I wouldn’t go as far as to say Pink Floyd-ish, if that’s a word(lol), we did still sprinkle in hopefully some well placed effects to help tell the story.

4. You are one of the composers of the songs that appear in «Dodgin Bullets». What inspired you to write the great music that appears in «Dodgin Bullets»?

A good part of the songs are based on real life that myself or my co-writers experienced or observed. The topics include: A high value on Life, Positive Attitudes, Child Abuse, Adoption, Raising kids, Making Good Choices, Lost Love and even Bull Riding. Life is full of interesting stories and if you just sit back and observe you’ll have plenty to talk about. I will admit, while it has bright spots, there is also a lot of Darkness within the album. I don’t consider myself a Dark Personality, but for many life has it’s struggles and woes and I think recognizing them and even talking about it helps us to cope.

5. The subjects you deal with in «Dodgin Bullets» are reflected in real life. What has been the reception of the public towards your new album?

So far the reception has been Excellent! Almost everyone has a different opinion of their Favorite Song, or claim they can’t choose their favorite because they like so many. We’re very proud of the feedback so far.

6. Have you done any tours to promote «Dodgin Bullets»?

The album was just released so no major tours as of yet. I still consider myself more of a Performing Songwriter so how many live performances and where remains to be seen, but I definitely plan on some.

7. Will your tour include Florida?

I love Florida and would love to visit and play some shows. We’ll have to work on that.

8. Do you have any message for your public.

I guess my main message is I hope everyone enjoys the album. We definitely put our heart and soul into this project, I believe in it and hope others do as well!

The complete album can be purchased digitally or hard copy thru CDBaby.com , alsoAvailable on Itunes and other popular retail sites. It’s also so helpful if everyone will leave positive reviews on the retailers sites.

Signed copies can be ordered directly from us by sending an email to info@pierbranch.com .

For me, Mark it is a pleasue and an honor to promote singer songwriters like you. I wish you the best with your new album and career.

Roberto, I want to thank you again for the support and kindness you’ve shown to me as a Songwriter and an Artist!