It’s been said that “now everyone has a CD”, and sometimes I tend to
believe it. Artists put their heart and soul into a CD project,
and honestly, most often, it’s just not too hot, or it’s just not for
me. My expectations are usually pretty low when I receive a CD
from a band unknown to me, especially if I’ve never even caught them in
a live show.
But, Christmas came early this year, in the form of Post Oak Savannah!
What an amazing breath...a deep, deep breath, of fresh air. Band
member Russell Wilson warned me that their band didn’t fit into a
specific genre, which actually had me a little intrigued. Upon
researching them via their website, their bio info states “Post Oak
Savannah writes and plays music for their own creative outlet,
therapeutic benefit, and their fans. They do not write to ‘please
the critics’.” True as this statement may be, they pleased this
critic very much.
Though I personally loved this CD from the first listen, I would bet
it’s not for everyone. The party-lovin’ listener can probably
enjoy it at face value, because musically it’s very strong. The
lyric listener will be drawn in and find depth and darkness themes
throughout most of their songs. There are many clever usages of words
bearing “double meanings”. It’s not a raunchy CD, but it’s adult,
definitely not for the Radio Disney or “the life is perfect” crowd.
These boys are writing some hard core therapy/creativity, no doubt.
The closest genre description might be “70’s-ish to Southern Rock with a
sprinkle of country and handful of Blues thrown in”. Maybe, or
maybe not, band member Wilson was right, they don’t fit in a category,
and it’s not a bad thing. And harmony? I had almost
forgotten what that was, until I heard this awesome reminder.
Their sheer diversity and originality reminded me of the first time I
heard Dallas area favorite Jay Johnson. As with Johnson’s music, I
ask, “why isn’t there more of THIS music out there? Living
in the world of Texas/Americana music, these guys are a wonderful and
welcome addition to what’s out there for the OKOM listener. For
those who absolutely love music that is totally original both in sound
and lyrics, it’s a gem. Not sure if folkies will enjoy it much
(may be a little too Rock for them) but I damn sure have.
My only “harsh” criticism would be that the band added in some “special
effects” in a couple of songs that I felt detracted a little.
Every song on the CD is well written, with top notch music behind the
strong vocals. I didn’t feel they needed the extras, but it also
hasn’t stopped me from playing the CD repeatedly in my car.
If hard pressed, I could list a few favorites on the disc, but honestly
there’s not really a bad one in the bunch. “Down on the Farm”,
“Four Dollars and a Half Pint”, and “Sixteen Miles” would probably be my
top three….today. Tomorrow, who knows. What I do know is
that this CD is a must have. It’s this band that could catch the
right break, and actually become a part of music history, and you could
be one like myself to say “I knew them when…..”.
You can purchase their CD from Lone Star Music, Amazon, or CD Baby. The
best way would be at a live show. Their calendar is up on their
www.postoakmusic.com website,
and you can hear some samplings of their music as well. I can’t
express in words what would be better heard with your ears. These
guys are really good, check ‘em out!
Lone Star Mama
Written by Dana Jones, December, 2006
