CD Review: The Cadillac Black – The Cadillac Black

12 years ago Liv Carter 1

 

The Cadillac Black – The Cadillac Black (Nobody Buys Records, 2012)

 

I don’t usually start a review with a bold statement, but here it is. The Cadillac Black‘s self-titled debut album makes me glad to be alive.

The trio (Jaren Johnston, Neil Mason and Kelby Ray) makes quite an entrance. Right from the opening power chords and the unapologetic declaration I’m southern and it ain’t my fault in the opening track, Johnston’s distorted, laid back drawl drags you into a world of beer-soaked country roads, whiskey-infused confessions, and happy-go-lucky summertime fun.

The lyrics are full of wonderful imagery and skillful playing with words. ‘I got my boots laced on with my guitar strings’ opens one of the standout tracks, ‘Tennessee Mojo,’ while ‘The Sticks’ says no-thanks to city living with the hook ‘you keep them stones/just give us the sticks.’ Tracks worth singling out for praise are ‘Back it Up,’ ‘Days of Gold’ and the gorgeous, Americana-esque closer ‘Whiskey Soaked Redemption.’

The Cadillac Black is a burst of honesty and southern energy. It is also a masterclass in how to produce a richly-layered sound without unnecessary compression and giving the musicians plenty of space to play. Uncontaminated by mainstream-Nashville’s love of polish and sheen, this raw, swampy record is nevertheless a jewel.

For anyone with even a slight interest in southern rock, The Cadillac Black is an essential purchase. Add it to your collection by visiting www.thecadillacblack.com

 

Liv Carter

Liv Carter

Liv is a career coach for creatives, and the people who work with them.
She holds several certificates from Berklee College of Music, and a certificate in Positive Psychology from UC Berkeley.
Her main influences are coffee, cats, and Alexander Hamilton.
Liv Carter

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