Snake Hollow
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
The multi-instrumentalist and singer Tristan Israel brings an excellent cast of players to this musically and lyrical diverse 4th album.
The upbeat and warm title track starts with Mike Israel’s frisky drums and Nancy Jephcote’s well timed violin, and “Massachusetts” follows with a flowing intimacy via the soulful backing vocals and charming acoustic guitar.
Further along, Israel lends harmonica to the vivid storytelling of “Water Over The Dam”, while “When I Die” places Phil Spillane on harmonica amid the violin acrobatics and Paul Thurlow’s frisky bass lines.
Very close to the end, “Galicia” allows Jephcote’s stirring piano to complement Israel’s poetic singing and “On Our Way” exits with both grit and melody populating the sincerity.
Sometimes anthemic, other times bluesy, folksy or rootsy and/or country, Israel and his band make for a dramatic, eclectic and memorable body of work.
Travels well with: Jubal Lee Young- Wild Birds Warble; Dana Cooper- The Ghost Of Tucumcari