Post Description

An honest and well-written take on America is elevated by some outstanding featured artists.

In 1935 American author Sinclair Lewis published a novel entitled ‘It Can’t Happen Here’ in which he described the rise of an American dictator who was elected as president after running on promises of restoring “traditional” values. The book served as inspiration to Nathan Bell when he was recording ‘Red, White and American Blues (it couldn’t happen here)’ in 2019, but unfortunately the figure running the US and trying to make it “great again” whom he would write about was depressingly real: Donald Trump.

The album opener is ‘Angola Prison’, a song about the inhumane practice of leaving prisoners in a box in the beating sun to suffer; it’s bluesy and heavy on the harmonic in accordance with the downbeat subject matter. ‘American Gun’ addresses America’s complicated and violent relationship with guns head on: “I’m a red white and blue / American Gun / Johnny come marching / And your native son / Wherever you go / They’ll know where you’re from / I’ll stamp your passport / The American Gun”. In the first of her three song guest appearances, the always luminous Patty Griffin joins Bell for harmonies on the chorus, her fragile voice bringing extra pathos when contrasted

Put this record on the top of the pile for contenders for best albums this year. The reasons this one rises to the top is its perfect combination of factors:  quality production (beautiful and distinctly separate sounds, catchy arrangements), excellent musicianship (with an easy fluidity), stellar vocals (including of course the choices of harmony singers) and serious, heavy and relatable songwriting.  Red, White, and American Blues has it all.

If you need an album that captures the mood of the times, this one is a definite for your collection.

Tracks:
01. Angola Prison
02. American Gun (feat. Patty Griffin)
03. American Blues (for GSH)
04. Retread Cadillac (lightnin') (feat. Regina McCrary
05. A Lucky Man (for my father, the original Dead Man)
06. Wrong Man For The Job
07. When You're Dead (Ghost reflects on his dire circu)
08. Mossberg Blues (feat. Regina McCrary)
09. Running On The Razor (family) (feat. Aubrie Seller)
10. Zensuit's Samadhi Blues
11. Monday, Monday (the bony fingers reprise)
12. To Each Of Us (a shadow) (feat. Patty Griffin)
13. Folding Money (you better move along)

Staat er compleet op, 10% pars mee gepost. Met zeer veel dank aan de originele poster. Laat af en toe eens weten wat je van het album vindt. Altijd leuk, de mening van anderen.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1BekNmB3RnY