The Legend Of Sam Davis
Self-Released, 2023
9/10
Listen to The Legend Of Sam Davis
The esteemed storyteller Aaron Smith brings us on a journey through Newton Country, Arkansas in the 1820’s, where the influences of John Prine, John Hartford and David Wilcox are present via the banjo, fiddle, pump organ and many other sound makers that are very much appreciated.
“The Way To Sam’s Throne” opens the listen with meticulous acoustic guitar and warm vocal harmonies alongside the soothing pump organ, and “Henry Martin” follows with a quicker approach of lively roots ideas that benefit much from the playful mandolin.
Deeper into the journey, “Ab Clayborn” uses banjo strategically alongside the vivid storytelling that’s a bit darker in scope, while “Dead Man’s Hollow” is a sublimely intimate display of soft percussion, emotive fiddle and pretty singing.
Closer to the end, “Looky There” offers a rowdy, dance floor ready, barnyard rocker that just invites a sing-along, and “A Thousand Years” exits with stirring piano complementing Smith’s eloquent pipes in the highly reflective finish.
The listen follows the path of Sam Davis, a mountain preacher, as he sets out to find his long lost sister, and the powerful plot involves several characters while touching on jazz, balladry, grooves and plenty of southern roots ideas. The package comes with a coffee table book that includes essays, family photos, maps and artwork for each track, too.
Travels well with: Brian Kalinec- The Beauty Of It All; Mitch Hayes- Gentle Man