Don’t Let It Die: Vol. 1
New West, 2026
9/10
Listen to Don’t Let It Die: Vol. 1
The Deslondes never disappoint, and this time around we’re treated to 12 songs recorded to analog tape, where interpretations by Swamp Dogg, Shelby Lynne, Johnny Cash, Clifton Chenier, and more are in attendance.
“The World Beyond” starts soft, where the warm vocal harmonies and Dan Cutler’s bass won’t go unnoticed, and “The Ballad Of Boot Hill” follows with Howe Pearson’s scrappy drums that suit Riley Downing’s deep pipes.
Moving along, “Moving” comes with a soulful and gospel spirit that’s raw and memorable, while “I’m Gone” is an intimate moment of dreamy guitar and cozy backing vocals for the gentle album highlight.
Closer to the end, “Family” places Michael Gay on drums and enlists John James Tourville’s pedal steel strategically, and “Don’t Let It Die” exits with beauty under the hazy and emotive singing.
These old songs see new life thanks to The Deslondes’ inimitable spin, where poignant and powerful reworkings are full of a live energy that the band is known and appreciated for.
Travels well with: The Deslondes- Hurry Home; Joe Pernice- Sunny, I Was Wrong