Old Crow Medicine Show - Tennessee Pusher Review

Unadulterated revivalism, at least in music, is a dicey endeavor: Plainly regurgitating aged tropes can feel disingenuous, lazy, or a little silly. But Old Crow Medicine Show—a country-folk-rock-bluegrass ensemble based in Nashville—seems mostly unconcerned with bowing to hallowed sonic ground. Instead, it synthesizes a century of acoustic Appalachian tradition into a weird, feisty hybrid. Tennessee Pusher nods to old-time string bands, but (much like outlaw country) favors mischief over sanctity: There's banjo, twang, slide guitar, and a guy named "Critter," but not a whole lot of do-good preaching....full text Old Crow Medicine Show is the rare band that has found a way to be all things to all people without ever sacrificing their integrity at the oft-visited altar of universal appeal. Roots-music purists cannot deny the authenticity with which the group revives bluegrass, country, and folk standards while penning originals that reflect the most classic sounds of those styles without seeming imitative. For those who would cringe at being subjected to an enthusiastic witness for the gospel of old-time Americana, however, Old Crow Medicine Show offers hallelujah-inducing hooks (delivered with a hellraiser’s spirit) that pack a considerable punch and pull listeners into each song, creating attachments that go beyond style or preference....full text Old Crow Medicine Show are one of the US's most rousing acoustic bands, but they have never captured the excitement of their live shows on record. Their last album was dominated by well-worn oldies and sounded too safe. But here they match their bluegrass and country roots with a fine set of their own songs. Their move from folk festivals to mainstream success is helped by production work from Don Was (of Dylan and Rolling Stones fame), and occasional celebrity help from Jim Keltner on drums and Benmont Trench on organ. What's important is the interaction of their fiddle, banjo and harmonica work, their easy harmonies, and the sheer quality of the writing....full text