BELLYACHE RECORDS (BR-015) [2009] Bellyache Records release #15, brings Scarlet Oaks "Canadian Dew" 6 track EP and it's already receiving rave reviews.... "Not the least bit a finding-themselves record, Scarlet Oaks' Innocence Isn’t Easy was the meeting of nostalgic hearts and poetic minds at the spooky urban middle ground between Bakersfield and Nashville. Continuing Innocence’s confidence, comfort and stretching-perceptions of “twangy” music, Canadian Dew is a beautiful chapter two. Adding warmth and fullness to the sound is the golden furled flare-n-jangle of James Anthony. Anthony, with Joe Lavis on bass, palpably shifts the energy, giving more boisterousness to the tumbling backbeats and jangly strums (“Old Lady River”) and communal stomp of the swaying clap-along-ability of traditional folk (“Scarlet Oaks”). Dew is the more fired up/twanged-up country/rock ballad hop, (highlighting harmony and intertwining guitars) to Innocence’s gothic Americana. The group's eclectic sensibilities, albeit predominantly country-flavored, unveil a woodsy earnestness and tall-tale charm that not only effectively sets the tree-curtained bonfire vibe, but makes you want to listen to their stories. Another highlight is the draw of SO's vocals, the beauty of McCauley/Christine’s duets (waltzy city/country anthem “Next Town”). McCauley’s raspy rabble can be so soothing and Christine’s coo, wispy and almost timorous. **** 4 out of 5 Stars - JEFF MILO, Real Detroit Weekly. The first 300 copies are hand numbered & come with hand silk screen cover art designed by artist Sarah Burger. TRACK LIST: 1) Scarlet Oaks 2) Wait For My Baby 3) Canadian Dew 4) Old Lazy River 5) The Next Town 6) Snow In Michigan CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO "CANADIAN DEW".! |