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Smelter Review again....! |
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Written by Jeff Napolitano
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Tuesday, 15 September 2009 |
yeah right...
Smelter know how to rock out. Excuse me for stating the obvious, but sometimes it needs to be said. On their latest album, Stop Callin' me, the Douglas-based alt-country band wastes no energy leaning forward, full throttle, into some remarkable twangin' guitar solos and straight-up danceable rhythms. I'll cut to the chase. The best song on Stop Callin' me is "Got me inside". With its percussive rhythm that calls to mind "Bo Diddley" its engine-revving guitar solos, old school rock-style rhythm guitars, and narrative lyrics about hang-ups...what could be more quintessentially Born to run-era americana?
Stylistically, Smelter cover all their bases on this record. "Can't see you through" is a straight-up rock and roll song, complete with driving drum part and ripping guitar solo. Then there's "feel like the wind", with its honky tonk piano and accordion; the title track is a lot more Americana-flavored swamp-pop, calling to mind some of the Widespread Panic's more extensive jams. The end of the tune turns a little noisy, making it one of the most swimmingly versatile tunes on the disc.
If you are seeking to expand the alt-country and Americana end of your record collection, Smelter Stop callin' me would be a fitting addition. Traditionalist folk fans, however, may be turned off by the band's unabashed tendency to rock out whenever possible. Still, the guitar solos - as hard as they rip - are tasteful and full of well-architectured feedback. Lyrics stick to the basics: the road, women, loneliness, and the importance of sticking together.
[Stevie Ricochet music blog, folkmusic.com] |
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Last Updated ( Tuesday, 15 September 2009 )
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