There are a number of ways to tell a story; music is one of them.    Often a story is told directly though sometimes portrayed in clouded mystery.    Sometimes the story is passed on in
semi-glossalalic utterances that only Van Morrison could replicate.  Tree by Leaf is both a storyteller and a simple conversationalist.  I'm not sure if we know exactly when we are on or the other.  We hope that Tree by Leaf will always be more than a dispenser of pre-made songs. 

Music can be a method of meaningful conversation between the musician, the audience and the world they all inhabit.  This communication not only branches beyond the music: it spreads
beyond words. 

Our music has chosen to express itself through a folk country rock conglomeration, influenced by a number of genres and bands from, Over the Rhine to Wilco and Pedro the Lion. 
Folk music is especially dear to us because of the philosophy behind its origin -because it revolves around folk...    around people.  Its tradition is rooted in oral recitation.  The hand-to-hand nature of true folk requires two things: an intimate knowledge of persons and a creative memory.  Christian Existentialist Soren Kierkegaard reminded us years ago that the poet is the one with the memory. 

I remember having a conversation with Kelly some time ago.   She said there was a certain song by a teenage pop queen (who shall remain nameless) that stuck in her mind without her own
invitation or desire.   She commented on how it felt like such an act of manipulation and intrusion.   With Tree by Leaf we understand that our music may be cliché, provocative,
contemplative, catchy at times and possibly boring, but we pray that it never becomes an obstinate guest that refuses to leave. 

Music is a living thing -- all art is.  It takes on a number of shapes, genders, personalities, and qualities with this shared assumption, we all understand that Tree by Leaf will grow, break bones, victor puberty, and hopefully become a loving individual -- complete, with unique ideas and friendship to offer.   Thank you for living and moving with us. 

Garrett Soucy
Tree By Leaf

January 12, 2001