I’m a fan of lap-steel, rebel-country swing, “Free Bird” style guitar ramblings, and mountain bluegrass jams. Like most of my musical favorites, my country music picks aren’t necessarily the most popular. Even when the music is made by popular bands, most people don’t admit listening to the songs I enjoy. I’m not a particular fan of Taylor Swift or Rascal Flatts, but I do enjoy the Old 97’s and the Dixie Chicks. I love the instrumentation, the careful guitar playing, and the lyrics (when they make sense.) Here are a few bands that use the country music influence to their advantage:
Great Lake Swimmers mix country music with soft-spoken folk vocals, and hit gold on their new release Ongiara. The first song “Your Rocky Spine” keeps a steady rhythm guitar going in the background while the melody dances all around. The lyrics are reminiscent of a less popular and less obvious “Your Body Is A Wonderland.” “Changing Colours” sounds like it’s sung by Mazzy Star and played smoothly like a lullaby. The oddest thing about Great Lake Swimmers is that they capture this country feeling from Toronto, Canada. But, I suppose their music isn’t really that odd when you remind yourself that Neil Young is from Canada.
Leroy Justice, isn’t a man with a ridiculously awesome name, it’s a band with ridiculously awesome music. They remind me of Johnny Lang mixed with an Apollo Sunshine that delves a little less in psychedelia. Their songs are all different, but the overall feel is one of joyous celebration in the face of pain. Yes, they get down blues style, but quite a bit of gospel is added into the bargain, and they swing like no other on the first half of their album (Revolution’s Son.) Of course, it all amalgamates into something newish and great to hear.
Check out these guys for now, and I’ll have more great music for you in the near future!!
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