When I had heard a rumor that Daniel Fairbanks had recorded a "Country & Western" EP I was a little freaked out. The previous lead singer/songwriter/guitarist for the successful alternative psychedelic-gospel band Soul Food, I couldn't quite picture him handling some whiskey-(or Holy Spirit, for that matter)-fueled bluesy roadhouse lamenting. Then again, his singing in Soul Food was passionate and plaintive, so from vocals alone it didn't seem completely incongruous -- just translating the music from the 70s-style fuzzy-funky alt rock suggested a challenge.
Of course, this EP is nothing like what I thought it would be. It's easily my favorite recording of Daniel's, including his work with seminal New Wave band Gloria, and the many Soul Food albums and EPs. Daniel has indeed created a honky-tonk vibe that the five songs float in, but other surprising influences find their way into his compositions: some surreal Beatlesque pop here ("Don't It Feel Just Great To Know Someone Needs You," "Carry Me"), some gritty blues there (the cover of "Release Me").
I feel as if Daniel's coming to terms with himself as a songwriter, allowing his roots -- classic 70s rock, pop, and country influences -- to tangle deep into his creative process. It's a little shaky, and by the time he creates his next full-length album I'll bet some of the rough spots will be smoothed out -- this is a pretty old recording at this point, sent to me at least several months ago -- but I enjoy hearing Daniel reaching for his voice the way an expert gunfighter reaches for his six-guns.
Sorry. Couldn't resist.
