Rare indeed when a collection of songs creates an entire world. Yet that’s exactly what transpires with Steppin’ In It’s "Simple Tunes for Troubled Times." Sonically painting with a pleasant array of old time country swing and blues, this Lansing, Michigan, quartet brilliantly updates a resurging American musical genre. Populating this 11-track collection is an aging riverboat, the ghost of Richard Manuel, innocent love, dreams that are dashed, and the struggle of the common man. It’s a world Woody Guthrie knew about, and sang about. Steppin’ In It conveys the wonder of the American spirit, but also its heartache. Led by composer/guitarist Joshua Davis, traditional roots music is celebrated here by plaintive vocals and sweet harmonies, plus musicianship that is positively staggering. The number of instruments manned by Davis, upright bassist Dominic John Suchyta, steel guitarist Joe Wilson and the harmonica-playing Andy Wilson includes trombone, trumpet, Cajun accordion, dobro, slide guitar, Cajun fiddle, clawhammer banjo. Even rarer, though their competence on these instruments is clearly superior, there is little, if any, soloing taking place. All four musicians play to support the essence of the song. A true ensemble, their wonderful arrangements take us on a rich journey through the jaunty "Give My Regards to Miss Moline," the Texas swing of "Hittin’ on All Six," the laid-back "Wren’s Lul-la-by," the true-blue "The Long Haul," and my fave, "Washtenaw County." Though mostly originals, there’s also a rollicking version of Randy Newman’s "Mr. President (Have Pity on the Working Man)." These artists earn my vote for band of the year.
It's officially craft beer month here in Michigan, figured one of your tracks would go well with the deliciousness the Great Lakes State has to offer, so I played one last week to get the combo just right.
hey guys, i'm a fan from Bree Saunders 4th parties and i was lucky enough to see you at Rothbury now also. You Rock! I have yet to be less than amazed at how groovy your tunes are and how much energy you pump into the crowd. Keep up the Love and i might be seeing you in Denver next month too, Cheers David Crambell
NEW TRACKS POSTED!!! BRAND NEW SONGS!!! Hear what we have been doing in the studio. The rest are being tracked. Tell us what you think. Tell your friends. Thanks for the ad.
