Standing On The Shoulders of Giants

The Deep Vibration - Veracruz

Over the past few years, the term roots music has kind of become a dirty word. Too often it's been associated with former generic jam bands who suddenly decide to abandon their boring extended instrumental breaks and adopt four minute blues progressions. But when it's done right, it's a perfect description of artists that make a heartfelt exploration of the foundations of American music.

I wasn't the slightest bit familiar with The Deep Vibration before I saw their set at Next Big Nashville last month, but they made one hell of a first impression. I described them at the time as "Gram Parsons fronting Crazy Horse," and listening to their debut EP Veracruz, it's still an apt description. Their sound is quintessential American rock and roll; an amalgamation of blues, soul, country and folk. They may call Nashville home, but their roots are steeped in Memphis and Muscle Shoals. They recall the era in the late 60s and early 70s when the Rolling Stones discovered country, and arguably churned out music that was more American than most bands that called the States home. It takes most bands ten years to make the kind of record that they've managed to accomplish right out of the gate. The fact that a certified legend like Spooner Oldham or Gillian Welch are willing to lend their considerable talents to this debut should tell you all you need to know about just how good it is. The only negative thing I can say about them is that they have one of the dumbest band names I've ever heard, but when Lou Reed christens your band, I guess it's hard to argue.

The Deep Vibration - "Oklahoma City Woman Blues (Veracruz)" (mp3)

The Deep Vibration will be holding their record release show this Friday, October 24 at The Basement in Nashville. The Explorers Club and Vermicious K'Nids round out the bill. Cover is a measly seven bucks, and includes a copy of the new EP.