Desert Run
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
The first EP from the duo of Dave Porter and Natalie Fratino, as The Smokey Lonesome they pen timeless country rock that welcomes some friends to the 5 dusty tracks.
“Frontera” starts the listen with warm guitar and Porter’s distinct voice, as Fratino’s skilled bass complements the vivid storytelling, and “Sleep Cowgirl” follows with a galloping spirit, where Fratino’s sweet voice guides the scrappy guitar and Dennis Fetchet’s meticulous fiddle.
Landing in the middle, the title track is kind of quirky, definitely original and applies accordion from Fratino, while “Arid Blues” is indeed bluesy and thumps with Kevin Jarvis’ agile drumming complementing the busy, dynamic landscape.
The quick listen ends on “Mojave”, and it’s a rich and harmonic version of country ideas that has Porter hitting some high notes and percussion from Jarvis.
An excellent first outing, this is an outfit with much potential, where grungy, garage rock nods add an interesting dimension to the country flavor.
Travels well with: Ted Russell Kamp- California Son; Jon Byrd- All Your Mistakes