Music: Old Crow Medicine

Thursday, October 9, 2008

In this fast-paced world, there are few outlets to which one can escape for solace and relaxation. Fortunately, Old Crow Medicine Show’s latest release, Tennessee Pusher, provides a refreshing hour of true grassroots bluegrass and folk sounds.

The five-member group hailing from Nashville, Tenn., stays true to its aggressive mix of southern folk and bluegrass on Tennessee Pusher, but still manages to mature further with more rock-oriented, lengthened tunes.

“Methamphetamine” is a mid-tempo ballad about the harsh realities of the drug. Its lyrics are raw and somewhat depressing, but are combined with some excellent harmonica work and a great melody.

“Motel in Memphis” is another excellent tune that combines banjo, harmonica, violin and guitar into telling the dark tale of the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. An organ is also added in the track, making for a more solemn tone that complements the violin’s strong melodies.

Tracks like “Mary’s Kitchen” and “Alabama High Test” with their fast-paced, ramblin’ feel and jam-oriented harmonica and violin solos are reminiscent of previous O.C.M.S. albums.

“Crazy Eyes” is a laid-back track with smooth slide guitar placed over the main acoustic riff. The tune eventually progresses to an upbeat anthem-like chorus, only to return to its soft tone. Its lyrics have the feel of those of an early Grateful Dead tune like “Ripple” or “Box of Rain.”

Each song on Tennessee Pusher is unique with solid guitar and violin development on almost every track. Tennessee Pusher is the perfect dose of true, down-to-earth music for anyone.

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