Big thanks to Kim Grant for sending me a copy of “Driven Back” by Jesse and Noah (Bellamy – yep more Bellamy brothers) of Franklin, Tennesse. This isn’t the first I’ve heard from the brothers, but it is definitely the best yet, and that’s saying something.
I really don’t know how to classify the record, or what to say about it; there are so many things that come to mind. This is just one great disc. It’s especially pleasing to me because it’s one-hundred-percent indie! They did it all themselves, right there in their middle Tennesse home, and they did it beautifully!
After years of writing and recording with different record labels and becoming disillusioned with Music Row of Nashville, Jesse and Noah have thrown away the rulebook to forge their own sound. Driven Back is self-produced and independently released. Recorded at their project studio in Franklin, TN (just outside of Nashville), they were very conscience of keeping the project authentic and not over-produced. http://jesseandnoah.com/aboutus.cfm
I’m reminded of The Band when I listen to the desire in “Traveler’s Prayer.” Guitar like Duane Eddy fits perfectly into “Bend in the Road” and “You Could Have Had It All.”
Tom Waits and John Hiatt come to mind on “True Love Doesn’t Beg.” “Florida Water” reminds me of another favorite, Bruce Cockburn, with great lyrics and laid back beach rhythms and interjecting bits of flowing water and surf breezes!
They get a bit old-school with an homage to grandfather Bellamy in “The Homer Bellamy Centennial Blue Yodel,” a swampy blues number with beautiful dobro and string bass. Grandad started the wole family music thing, ya know, playning in a local outfit from Darby, Fla.
The guys hit a lot of styles and do them all well. There is a grace in the arrangements and playing that allows the music to breathe and drives each word and note home with point.
I’m in agreement with Jedi Gro, every song on this thing is a smash hit at my house! Here’s what he had to say, Jesse and Noah Have Traveled The World And Driven Back On Their Upcoming Release
They’ll be on the Billy Block Show at The Mercy Lounge Tuesday, January 22nd 2013 7pm, and I can’t wait!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XxadLWKJlAI
