ustin, Texas’ reputation as a fertile musical ground continues with Woody Russell’s work. His new EP release This Is Son Solitaire includes three tracks that represent Russell’s finest released material. Yet I get the feeling he’s barely scraped the surface of his capabilities. Blending art-rock conceits with sturdy pop influences is one of This Is Son Solitaire’s chief calling cards and each of the EP’s three songs boasts boisterous and lively production that frames its virtues in the best possible sonic light. - Indie Pulse Music
Woody Russell’s This is Son Solitaire opens the latest chapter in one of the indie music world’s most formidably gifted artists that newcomers and long-time fans alike will enjoy and embrace. - Top Buzz Magazine
“… a lyrical portrayal of a world in disarray with love as the only respite as the walls collapse all around. There’s an abundance of musical imagination driving performances such as this. Russell writes, records, and performs music with the same ease he brings to breathing and each of the EP’s three songs sound as if they were floating in the ether waiting for someone to come pluck them out and set them down for posterity. Posterity will inevitably judge these tracks favorably.” - Pop Icon Magazine
“This is Son Solitaire shows a musical artist arguably working at the peak of his powers, but it’s far from the final word. There are greater triumphs ahead for this unique talent. First-time listeners to Russell’s gifts will surely return for more and he’ll be happy to oblige. Listeners such as myself will be happy to continue listening.” - Ballyhoo Magazine
"He aspires to more than mere entertainment; Russell plots and pivots in such a way that he’s aiming for musical art every time. Marrying a friendly pop sheen with challenging arrangements and an intelligent lyrical message distinguishes Russell’s work from a bevy of lesser talents on the scene. You will get more out of these three songs than you will out of many much longer releases. It is a wonderful EP release that has something to offer every listener and calls on you to revisit the songs more than once. Its riches run deep and show a musical artist and songwriter who has a lot to say. Woody Russell’s This is Son Solitaire proves that he deserves our full attention." - The Hollywood Digest