Three Tracks from Rising Folk Music Star Henry Black
Henry Black’s style is, as you will hear, both haunting and iconic. He has a perfect combination of youthful excitement and a savant’s ability. Imagine what he’d write about if he had more life experience to inform his writing. He will remind you of the classics of the great blues artists from nearly a century ago, all while bringing a crispness a precision that reminds you that he is still young and adventurous. These tracks will not disappoint.
“SIx Feet Underground”
-This was the first track I heard from Henry and it hooked me right away. He has a sort of lonesome mountain sound to him, while also echoing a deep sense of the blues. He’s giving himself advice about his lot. The only artist I’ve ever heard who could do this was another young savant named Tom Evanchuck. The more you hear these layered lines and the heart of his lyrics, the sooner you realize we’re hearing the beginning of something great.
“A Country Song”
-I can’t decide if this is a mocking country song (considering the track art is a shot of former President Bill Clinton), or if it’s sincere. But what I can tell is that Black could be a serious country artist if he chose to do so. He sings with a Marty Robbins style genuineness that we really don’t hear on contemporary country radio. It’s also – and maybe not surprisingly – a heartbreak song. Some of my favorite parts, though, are Black’s flourishes on the acoustic guitar that feel just so natural. He’s like the professional musician next door, seemingly exceptional and approachable all at once.
“A Protest Song”
-And to finish this trifecta of awesome songwriting, Black presents a quintessential folk protest song. The lyrics are sometimes confusing, but it’s clearly about police brutality and media coverage of said contemporary issues. The acoustic guitar work is, again, outstanding. Black shows a level of proficiency with this style that makes other folk musicians, even the greats, sound like amateur musicians. I am in awe with the quality of this track. If they decide to make another version of Inside Llewyn Davis they need to include Henry Black. He just might be a legitimate generational talent.
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