New Country Rehab
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New Country Rehab - New Country Rehab Album Review
Album Review
The first thing that stood out for me, whilst listening to New Country Rehab's new release, was their version of Bruce Springsteen's 'State Trooper', from his 1982 album 'Nebraska'. I have heard Arcade Fire, Steve Earle, and Springsteen himself sing this. However, I have not heard a version like New Country Rehabs. It is a great interpretation and sets the standard for the rest of the album.
The band consist of four Canadians offering a fusion of high quality fiddle playing, a saw blade playing percussionists, a thunderous double bass and a number of guitars. Oh and a voice that has definitely got that Arcade and Springsteen sound. It's an interesting album. They are quoted as "one of the few bands that the hardest of old-folkies and the hippest of hipsters can agree on". It's almost old school but very today.
With song titles that Dylan could have penned and lyrics that are sung like a passionate Springsteen, these guys are very much part of a new wave of American and even more so Canadian groups that give us a folk, roots, bluegrass and country feel all morphed into one really good sound which is most definitely unique. They have a heart and soul energy of a rock and roll band but the subtlety of country with some great poetic lyrics.
Of the ten tracks on offer here, apart from my favourite 'State Trooper', I really like the upbeat 'The Houses In This Town Are All Falling Down" and the handclapping sing along that is 'Mind Your Own Business'.
Look out for their short European tour in January 2012 to support the album release.
