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Smokestack Trilogy |
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The Groanbox Boys |
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Artist |
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01 December 2006 |
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The Groanbox Boys – Smokestack Trilogy
This is really a good record. These two young, London based americans tell
us clearly that our memory is not an option if we want to look to the future
with confidence. Cory Seznec e Michael Ward Bergeman paint a picture of
the past, an America that was – that of the hobo and the steam train
– without becoming nostalgic but instead providing a fresher inquisitive
view. As they are both singers and multi –instrumentalists ( as well
as the accordion we hear the harmonica, banjo, acoustic guitar, piano and
percussion) they manage to cover a wide range of rhythms and styles. Intelligently,
the sung numbers alternate with the instrumental ones. As regards the accordion
it has to be said that it is not the principal instrument, however it is
nearly always present and adds significantly to the sonoric ambience of
many of the tunes. Technically gifted players and masters of their material,
the Groanbox Boys sing and play with an enviable sprit and a love of their
traditions whether in folk songs, mountain songs, blues or rag. They relate
these traditions back to us updated, alive and pulsating in compositions
which (apart from one) they have written themselves. It’s not surprising
that it is the voyage , the hobos and all those stories and legends that
inspires them and delivers a complete package of music, words and beautiful
cover photos. A glance at the titles gives us the indication (for example
“Hobo Heaven”, “Lonesome Traveller” or “Train Take
My Pain Away”) and in conclusion it leads us to follow their advice,
clearly given, in the track “Last Call” – all aboard!
Reviewed by Renato Belardinelli,
December 2006 |
