Hailing from Detroit, Michigan, the Deadstring Brothers are a band with a variety of influences, as their sound is reminiscent of country, blues, and classic rock. Their fifth release, Cannery Row, uses a variety of instruments that are used in these genres. More than once on this album I was reminded of The Band. “Oh Me Oh My” is my personal favorite on the record with Kim Collins providing backing vocals. She is also heard on several other songs including “The Mansion,” “Like A California Wildfire” and “It’s Morning Irene.” The latter track is a perfect example of their take on country with the use of banjo and harmonica. Beautiful melodies are created by the steel guitar and Hammond organ in the upbeat “Long Lonely Ride.” With the use of keyboards, organ and guitar slide, there seems to be a mix of classic rock and blues.
“Lucille’s Intro” is a 30-second instrumental that sets up for “Lucille’s Honky Tonk.” These two songs show off the band’s country roots. Banjo, steel guitar, and keyboards add depth to the music on these tracks. “Just A Deck Of Cards” features a strong performance on steel guitar, while the Hammond organ is most present in “Talkin’ With A Man In Montana.” Keyboards and vocals start off the title-track with the rest of the instruments coming in later. Cannery Row closes out with the slow-paced “Song For Bobbi Jo.” Using various instruments and techniques allows this band to represent the three main genres that have influenced them. The classic rock organ, the country banjo, and the bluesy steel guitar are heard throughout the record, forming their own take of music reminiscent of The Band.
In A Word: Nostalgic
