Thought You’d Never Ask: The Complete 1975 Armadillo Records Recordings
Omnivore, 2024
10/10
Listen Thought You’d Never Ask: The Complete 1975 Armadillo Records Recordings
The South Carolina outfit Uncle Walt’s Band, i.e. David Ball, Deschamps Hood, and Walter Hyatt, laid down these 22 tracks in 1975 and intended them to be used for the Warner Brothers demos, which never materialized.
Here they reside in an official setting, where 19 of the tracks are previously unissued and new liner notes from renowned journalist and producer Bill Bentley complete the package.
The warm and retro fun of “Beauty In The Flesh” starts the listen with glowing vocal harmonies (what the band were known for), and it’s not long until “Getaway” emits traditional country ideas that enter their flowing 3 part harmonies.
Further along, “For The Time” radiates much beauty via the intimate delivery that meshes rich strings in a bluegrass sort of way, while “Billy Goat Hop” carries a playful spirit thanks to the meticulous guitar and distinct singing.
Deeper still, the fluid keys of “Whatever Reason” complements the textured guitars and layered voices, and “Your Tender Kiss” exits with a nostalgic mood that’s dreamy, uniquely harmonic and timeless.
When Uncle Walt’s Band ended in the early ‘80s, they were residing in Austin, Texas, where they were local favorites. Hyatt and Hood would both pass away young, but their music will live on indefinitely thanks to reissues like this, and plenty of tributes and various versions of the band that have played over the years.
Travels well with: Uncle Walt’s Band- Recorded Live At Waterloo Ice House; Steve Earle & The Dukes- Ghosts Of West Virginia