Carried Away - The Ditchflowers Album Review
The Ditchflowers
Album Review
There must be something in the air, or maybe the sunshine.
We mustn't forget it had the same affect on Florida musicians like Gram Parsons, Allman Brothers, Mavericks and Jim Morrison.
Once again the Sunshine State produces quality pop/rock from erstwhile outfit The Ditchflowers.
The band comprises of multi-talented core members of principal songwriter Ed Woltil (ex-Drive Thru Church / The Headlights) on guitars, keys, bass, harmonica and more, and Brian Merrill (ex-Barely Pink) whose music has been featured in broadcasts by outlets such as the XGames (ESPN) the Disney Channel and the Tokyo Broadcasting System, further consolidating their broad appeal. Also on board are host of musical buddies such as Stan Arthur, Brian Thompson, Chuck Darling, Danny Di Pietra and Steve Robinson, contributing to various tracks. As an ensemble everything seems to click nicely, making it sound very much like a band effort.
Using a clever pop element fused with AOR, they have assembled an album that begs you to go back for more. Their knack is not totally selling out, but retaining its sensibilities. Therefore, it's time to literally get 'carried away' and immerse yourself in this music fest. Calling on a penchant for Beatles-like harmonies, and a dash of Aussies Crowded House to boot. It beggars belief that this album hasn't had a bigger audience. The Ditchflowers should be pushing this in the face of a big label, which I believe would bring dividends. The entire album oozes quality musicianship with well crafted and appealing songs.
Opening in considerable style and panache, a Tim Finn styled acoustic- lead beauty - My Next Life - rubber stamps their credibility and intention to make an impression from the off. And they do.
The British angle soon kicks in with a touch of music hall on Home Away From Home. There's an element of early 70s Bowie in there too, especially the vocal, on the playful jaunt Walkin' Back, beefed -up by some jazzy brass back-ups.
Track Boys is a dead-ringer for a solo Macca template and Since I Met You is late Fab Four (Abbey Road) dripping close harmonies and rough edged riffs, topped by a blistering guitar solo. In sharp contrast New Skin has shades of 70s Prog Rock, but as with everything they touch melody is at the heart of everything, and is never sacrificed here. Lightweight rocker Sweet Mercy And Understanding has all the hallmarks of the contemporary Americana niche. A little bit dirty, but nice, punctuated by some sparkling guitar solos. Returning to their Beatles influences, the acoustic and close harmony of Aunt Marie takes us back to the innocence of the mid-60s, bringing back fond memories when Lennon and Macca perfectly complimented each other on ballads.
Overall, this is an excellent collection, accessible and worthy of a big audience on both sides of the pond.
File under: Subtle radio - friendly pop / rock.
