Willy Tea Taylor and Jeffrey Martin – “Bakersfield”
-This song discusses the classic American music town of Bakersfield, California. It’s an homage to the “devil in this town” about country music’s arrival in Bakersfield. If you listen closely to the words, though, it’s not all good news. The main character wishes they moved on and never fell for the music (and culture) there. It’s got a throwback electric-guitar heavy storytelling folk style that works really well. The expressive vocal style from Willy Tea Taylor is delightfully idiosyncratic. Fans of Americana music will find a lot to like from this (tall?) tale about an iconic California city.
For Ernest – “Until We’re Ghosts”
-The comparison I am about to make will offend some, but I genuinely hear it. This song reminds me of Jason Isbell and Amanda Shires “We Were Vampires.” There’s a depth and sincerity in the songwriting in For Ernest that feels like it transcends time. The electric guitars act as ghosts in their own right, invisibly carrying messages and emotions for our ears. The haunting chord choices are reminiscent of the Civil Wars with their incredibly intimate vocal harmonies. For Ernest deserve to be in the company of these members of Americana royalty for this wonderful, emotional track “Until We’re Ghosts.”
Kiefer Luttrell – “Punching the Clock”
-If you’re a fan of emotional songwriting, give Kiefer Luttrell’s new song a spin. The steel guitar deserves its own billing on this track because it does a lot of good work. The electric guitar and the vocal ain’t too bad, either. Luttrell’s style echoes the sincerity of artists like Tyler Childers and Sturgill Simpson, albeit in a more subdued way. The relatable lyrics are sure to connect with a wide range of listeners; if country-flavored Americana music is your escape from the hardships of the world, then Kiefer Luttrell’s music is definitely for you.
Image courtesy: Willy Tea Taylor IG
