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Like most people in the roots music world, we enjoy and admire all of the many-faceted talents of Tim O’Brien.
When he recommended it was time the whole world got to know about Sweet Sunny South, we agreed.
Like O’Brien himself, the Colorado-based band successfully combines true grit old-timey tunes with a classy modern take on the genre to create a sound that’s both gutsy and polished.
Recalling the glory days of The Maddox Brothers & Rose, Stanley Brothers and The Carter Family, the four-piece built a solid following at home after eight years together, presenting original songs as strong as any, with an infectious rockabilly edge, playing storming music and finishing the whole shebang with beautifully tight and full vocal harmonies.
There’s a ‘40s boogie woogie slant to some of the material and when they slide into a hypnotic fiddle-driven instrumental groove, it’s easy to see why they won invitations to participate as official showcase band for the IBMA and Folk Alliance gatherings.
Although there are inevitable comparisons to some of the greatest old-time groups, many also liken them to more modern phenomenons The Freighthoppers, Reeltime Travellers or The Wilders.
Banjo and mandolin player, Bill Powers writes most of the songs, taking the listener on scenic journeys down dusty old byways; Cory Obert plays mean old-time fiddle, often with a fiery Cajun flare, and sings a solid high tenor; Rob Miller writes too, plays the Martin D-28 with a real heart for the job and sings lead and harmony; Shelley Gray plays a nice old Kay upright bass and sings so sweet, her contribution takes them occasionally to Mamas & Papas highs.
What makes the ‘live’ performance so appealing is an obvious feeling that everyone of them is having a ball. The stage show is highly entertaining and filled with humour.
The band has recorded four fine albums all of which have received widespread radio plays across the USA.
As Mr O’Brien says: “The world needs more music from this fine group” |
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