Webster’s Dictionary defines a “heathen” as one who is uncivilized. Digging a bit deeper, one might find a synonym for uncivilized is “wild.” Now we are getting somewhere. Looking further into the definition of “wild,” Webster’s states “passionately enthusiastic or indicative of strong desire or emotion.” I think we finally hit the mark.
Music is something which beats within us….crying to be released in a manner that speaks to others….allowing the listener to feel what we feel….hear what we are trying to say….and appreciate how we are communicating our thoughts. The Band of Heathens understand this very well, and their ability to accomplish just this on record is amazing.
The Band of Heathens recent release titled “One Foot In The Ether” is a masterful follow up to their initial studio record released just over a year ago. There is definitely no sophomore jinx here, as this native Texas band continues to shine. Not wanting to get pigeon holed with any specific genre, they successfully branch out more into a soulful funk here, along with a blend of alt-country and rock, allowing their harmonies and outstanding instrumentals to capture the listener. The passionate emotion
(i.e. see definition of heathen above) within each song puts the listener in the same room, doing an exceptional job of catching the live energy which is missing in many studio recordings.
Ed Jurdi, Gordy Quist, and Colin Brooks continue to provide strong lead vocals and harmonies, along with their timeless writing talents. Supported by Seth Whitney on bass, John Chipman on drums and Trevor Nealon on piano, they are no longer emerging onto the music scene….but stand high on the list of what others can only hope to become.
The lone cover in the 12 songs on the record is a rendition of the Gillian Welch song “Look at Miss Ohio.” Honestly, this song is the weakest only because it does not fit seamlessly in with the rest of the material. It is difficult for some artists to cover a song because they lack the passion the writer felt within it. However, BOH does not slip up much here. Even their weakest link is still enjoyable.
Opening the record with “L.A. County Blues” sets up the journey as a very memorable trip, as the record title appropriately states “one foot in the ether” within the song. The upbeat “Say” follows up and further lays the groundwork making the statement “Say what you want to say…do what you want to do…go on your own way…if you have a mind to.” It is the strong harmonies in the chorus here that will have you tapping your feet and singing along.
LIVE CLIP OF “L.A. COUNTY BLUES”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-bZFUfTTvl8
LIVE CLIP OF “SAY”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UB1IzIc3BdE
They certainly kick it up a notch or two with the next two songs “Shine a Light” along with “Golden Calf.” Proving that even a heathen can have a religious streak within, these two songs lay claim to why BOH is so successful. The raw energy…passion….and emotion which flow from these songs is astounding.
LIVE CLIP OF “SHINE”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FC_9Bl2itWs
One might compare BOH to The Eagles during their prime, or perhaps Little Feat, but not even those past talents reach the full heights on display here. “You’re Gonna Miss Me” has a soulful funk rarely heard today. “Somebody Tell The Truth” has a Delbert McClinton and Stevie Wonder feel, showing the true depth of their immense skills.
LIVE CLIP OF “YOU’RE GONNA MISS ME”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpA1y99nseQ
LIVE CLIP OF “SOMEBODY TELL THE TRUTH”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gTPm3v-EH7s
They can even do a soul wrenching touching love song “Let Your Heart Not Be Troubled,” easing not only the listeners burdens but their own as well. As Chipman beats the lone drum opening the song, followed by the soft instrumentals and vocals, the poignant emotions bleed through fully. This is what makes a song….the ability to sell it from your heart. Very few can do it any better than this….period.
The final song closes out the journey through this record exceptionally well. “Hey Rider” is a six minute lullaby touching on the woes of life, ending the album with the optimistic hope that “all is not lost.”
This record is sadly a very rare opportunity for all music lovers. Rarely today do you have a chance to hear true harmonies….supported and not carried by great instrumentals….and most importantly sang with such passion that the music bleeds through the speakers. This one will certainly stand the test of time….and so will The Band of Heathens.
BONUS – FOR ALL BOH FANS…MAKE SURE YOU CATCH THEM ON 2 SONGS ON THE LATEST JASON EADY RELEASE “WHEN THE MONEY’S ALL GONE“…ANOTHER VERY GOOD RECORD YOU NEED TO GET ASAP!
