I like the description of Chatham County Line that the band provides. They think of themselves as more of a rock band (without a drummer and cables) than a 1940′s traditional bluegrass band. But regardless of what the band thinks some of these songs belong on the Oh Brother soundtrack with their themes of working on the chain gang, railroad workers and the general prevalent theme of 1920′s depression-era social justice for all.
Speed of the Whipoorwill is their new release on Yep Roc, it’s been produced by big name knob twiddler Brian Paulson (Rosebuds, Beck, Wilco). The sound hasn’t been messed with as there’s probably nothing radical you can do to a band that doesn’t even require electricity. Long before The Decemberists arrived folk bands have been singing historical songs and Chatham County line continues that tradion with the song “Confederate Soldier”. But the original song I picked has a theme that’s a staple in bluegrass and that’s a song about Carolina. You can pre-order this release as well as Dave Alvin’s upcoming record here.
