Former Eureka Musician Offers Missouri-Inspired Songs

Eureka native musician Barna Howard is now in Portland, OR, capturing attention with his songwriting, singing and guitar skills.

"After moving to Chicago (for college), I started taking songwriting a bit more seriously," said Howard. "It became an addiction of mine very, very quickly. I couldn't stop!"

The 2003 Eureka High graduate was deemed "a meticulous craftsman" by EliteMuzik.net. The EliteMuzik article called his work "songwriters’ songs," that "weave melody, narrative and gravity in ways only the best have." Howard stated his major musical influences are Bert Jansch, Neil Young, Townes Van Zandt and James Talley.

Howard grew up in , but now lives in Portland after first living in Chicago and Boston.

Howard told Patch he was "a little on the shy side" when living in Eureka, and so wasn't involved with any bands while here.

"I pretty much enjoyed keeping the songs I was working on to myself. Though overall, felt good about what I was doing," he said.

His self-titled album was self-recorded in a damp Portland basement studio, and was released in February via Mama Bird Recording Company. The YouTube clip that accompanies this article gives an excellent sampling of his musicial talents. To purchase his self-titled album, click here.

Following are some lyrics from a song entitled "Timber, Nails and Tears," written about a fellow Eureka graduate and friend who went off to the military and was killed in action. 

I'll send you kisses across the water

For I'd go mad if love weren't true

It's hard to find someone to talk to

Because over here, that's what the weapons do

I won't send you timber, nails, and tears,

Because, honey,

That kind of thing ain't for you

Howard said he tries to make it back home to Eureka at least once a year to see his family.

This year, he said he hopes to finish recording a second album by late winter. "It's coming along well."

Howard said he plans to stay in Portland for a bit longer. "I've met some great folks and other musicians that have been so supportive, and are willing to help out with my second release."

Driving down to northern California this summer was a special treat, Howard said. "The scenery out there is exhaustingly beautiful."