Reviewed by Ian Phillips.
Old Crow Medicine Show, Columbia Records 2018.
If you’re looking for some old-style country, then this is the album for you.
Old Crow Medicine Show play fiddle-based old-time country with an up-beat, knee-slapping, rhythm.
It’s good time music, a lot of fun and energy, and some nice subtle musical flourishes.
The album was recorded at the historic RCA Studio A in Nashville and produced by Dave Cobb who has produced albums for Chris Stapleton, Jason Isbell, and Sturgill Simpson.
The band toured Australia in 2017 promoting their Blonde on Blonde album.
I haven’t heard it but I assume that it’s a cover of the famous Bob Dylan album of the same name.
Apparently they played to sold-out shows in Sydney and Melbourne and I suspect that they’re a good live band.
In this album they branched out a little by including electric guitar, the first time since 2004.
This fact gives an indication of what to expect musically.
They play acoustic instruments for the most part and have recorded the tracks live to tape.
They’re very good at what they do.
There’s no cross-over into pop and rock like most modern country stars.
What you get is pure country.
