Red, White And American Blues
Need To Know, 2021
9/10
Listen to Red, White And American Blues
The singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Nathan Bell certainly knows his way around a diverse listen, where roots rock, jazz, folk and even swampy sounds are present, as he’s joined by Frank Swart, Alvino Bennett, and John Deaderick, plus some special guests we’re all in awe of.
“Angola Prison” starts the listen with incredible guitar playing that welcomes Bell’s rugged vocals into a timeless version of folk rock that embraces soulful harmonica, and “American Gun” follows with Patty Griffin in attendance, and her inimitable singing complements Bell’s storytelling in the piano friendly setting.
Deeper into the listen, Griffin returns on the emotive and gentle “A Lucky Man”, where strategic drumming and soft guitar are met with the pair’s eloquent singing, while “Mossberg Blues” recruits Regina McCrary into the fuller delivery that emits an energetic bluesy swagger. “Running On The Razor”, another exceptional tune, then benefits from Aubrie Sellers, as darker themed spoken word and thumping drums complement Sellers’ soaring pipes.
Approaching the end, Griffin is back on the dreamy “To Each Of Us (a shadow)”, where a poetic landscape unfolds with acoustic guitar and the duo’s ebullient singing which possesses so much beauty, and “Folding Money (you better move along)” exits the listen with a nearly gospel angel that’s rhythmic and quite captivating.
Red, White And American Blues was actually recorded in 2019, but delayed for release due to the pandemic. Penned during a tumultuous time for America, the subject matter is just relevant now as it was then, and Bell’s soundtrack for a shattered country makes for an absorbing version of Americana that you’ll be immediately drawn to.
Travels well with: Michelle And Jason Hannan- Cheater’s Waltz; Matt Eckstine- Lil’ Blue