Hard Times & Deadlines
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
Listen to Hard Times & Deadlines
Augie Dougherty, Ben Majeska, Eli Frieders and Denzel Connor, i.e. Armchair Boogie, bring their jamgrass, newgrass and funkgrass ways to these lively 10 tracks that welcome some excellent guests.
“Hard Times” starts the listen with fluid picking, as Majeska’s distinct voice guides the rural melodies, and “Livin’” follows with swift and dynamic playing that makes great use of Connor’s acrobatic drumming and Dougherty’s banjo wizardry.
At the halfway point, “Skippin’ Town” is a calmer moment of warm song craft and vivid storytelling that emits soothing vocal harmonies, while “You’ve Been Hurt” is populated by Frieders’ flowing bass amid the heartfelt singing.
Approaching the end, “Liquor Store” benefits much from Ernest Brusubardis IV’s animated fiddle, and “Boneyard” exits with a frisky demeanor of harmonic songwriting that spotlights Dougherty’s vibrant harmonica.
This Wisconsin quartet is really onto something, and their powerful, creative and funk friendly vision that uses horns on occasion sure does put a fresh coat of paint on bluegrass.
Travels well with: Arkansauce- Ok To Wonder; Randy Steele- High Cold Wind