Blending genres of music has become much more common today, with mixed results. Why should we even attempt to categorize all music? Breaking free of these unnecessary habits and allowing the music to speak for itself is what everyone should strive to achieve. The true artists already do it, and unfortunately some pay the price for not fitting well under a particular genre umbrella.
Allow me to introduce you to Rose’s Pawn Shop. This L.A. based band is blessed with amazing talent, but yet few have heard of them. If you read prior reviews, many have attempted to categorize them as progressive bluegrass, only because you can hear a banjo, fiddle, mandolin, and upright bass many associate with bluegrass. Some have even tried to compare them with Nickle Creek. None of this is even close, or fair, to Rose’s Pawn Shop. They have a sound and energy much their own, and hallelujah amen for that!
From the very opening chords to their new CD titled “Dancing On The Gallows,” the instruments build to a astounding crescendo of music. Supported by classically trained fiddle/mandolin player Tim Weed, Stephen Andrews on upright/electric bass, John Kraus on banjo/electric guitar, and Ulf Geist on drums, lead vocalist and writer Paul Givant present a unique musical experience that you must hear to truly appreciate. By blending bluegrass/country/southern rock/Celtic sounds, Rose’s Pawn Shop energetic passion shines throughout this CD.
This is the second CD for this eclectic group. In 2006 they were handpicked by Jack White to open for him and The Raconteurs, ultimately playing for a huge sold out crowd in Henry Fonda Theatre. After a little shuffling here and there, some time off in 2008, the band began preparing for the new 12 song all originals CD.
Speaking with lead vocalist Paul Givant over the phone, he seemed quite pleased with the final results. “We wanted to have more diversification on this one, and highlight our instrumental talents in the group. Tim is a classical trained musician, Ulf is a great drummer, Steve and John each do exceptional jobs as well. We definitely wanted to accentuate the positives.”
There is much her to enjoy for every musical taste. “Ball of Flames” is a rockabilly song that would fit comfortably on any original Stray Cats record. Stephen Andrews opening bass piece sets the table here.
Traditional country fans will love “The Bed In Which You Lie.” This one sounds like a great Dwight Yoakam piece, back when Dwight was concentrating on his music and not acting. In fact, listen closely to Givant’s vocals here and it will remind some of Yoakam’s heartfelt passion.
“Strangers” is a song which captivates you with the opening sounds of a lone cello, creating the picture of anguish and despair in this haunting number. This timeless classic by Givant is simply amazing. The combination of instrumental pieces and lyrics here leave you wanting more. Close your eyes, sit back, and enjoy this one.
The last two songs on the CD are an interesting contrast in themselves. “The Garden” opens much like an old Irish tune, then Givant enters with the vocal phrasing reminiscent of 1960’s Bob Dylan. The harmonies here by the full band add a special touch not seen on many other songs. “Debt Collector” is the final epic song, epic in the sense it is over 7 minutes in length. When asked about this, Givant said “Sure, we thought about cutting it down. The producer wanted to, but I just couldn’t do it. I am pretty strong willed, and when I hear something in my head, that is the way I want it. I just didn’t feel we could cut it without losing an essential part”. This song has a certain Spanish feel, with the introduction of horns in the song. Picture the Arizona/New Mexico landscape as the background to this story, and you have hit home.
Givant states the band is looking forward to its cross country tour this summer to promote the CD. Besides the songs on the CD, look forward to a few songs from an eclectic mix including The Misfits, Johnny Cash, and even the Phil Collins tune “In The Air”. “We certainly do them our own way, so some may not recognize them right away, but we enjoy adding our own twist into them and see the reactions,” says Givant.
This record must truly be heard to appreciate, because words themselves can not do it justice. If you go into it with a closed mind, looking for bluegrass for example, then this may not be for you. For those with a love of music in all it’s passion and purity, then pick this one up and enjoy.
Just so you can get a better idea for yourself, here is the title cut from the record.
Keep up with the tour schedule, and all other news from the band here:
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Good review John. I look forward to checking that out!!