When I was researching Southeast Engine, I learned that the band is from Athens, Ohio. Knowing that, it is not surprising that this album is heavily influenced by Appalachian music. Not only is this album influenced by Appalachian music, but according to the band's website, Canary "tells the stories of a single Appalachian family holding on through the violent deprivations of the Great Depression." This gives Southeast Engine something in common with The Band, who also incorporated folk elements into its music and sang about events that occurred long before any of the band members was born.
The sound is definitely reminiscent of The Band. This album has a strong storytelling quality and some excellent harmony vocals ("Red Lake Shore"). However, this band reminds me a lot more of The Felice Brothers than The Band. It is the same sort of gritty folk rock you'll get from The Felice Brothers. For a good example of this rock element, check out "1933 (Great Depression)"
There is also a pretty heavy Bob Dylan influence in "Summer and Her Ferris Wheel" and "Sourwood Mountain." Just listen to the harmonica that accompanies these stories and try not to think about Bob Dylan.
You know when you listen to some bands and you wonder if they put any time at all into their lyrics? I sure didn't ask that question when I listened to this one. I found some real lyrical gems on this album (as you might expect from a band that puts so much into the stories of its songs).
- "The devil left his footprints here." (Cold Front Blues)
- "What's so great about the Great Depression?" (1933 - Great Depression)
If you like any of the bands mentioned here or you just enjoy a band that can tell a good story, check out Southeast Engine. I have the feeling this album might be one you play for a lot of your friends. Canary is available now from Misra Records.
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