Deadstring Brothers

The Detroit band, 'Deadstring Brothers', release their self titled debut album in the UK on the Times Beach record label. What can i say about this collection of 11 songs penned by singer/guitarist Kurt Marschke?

The level of intensity and depth of intent is apparent enough in this country rock setting but frankly, Mr Shankley, the songs, in my opinion, are just not top drawer! Kurt sounds like early Elton John singing Mick Jagger and indeed there's a lot of stealing going on from the Stones and Dylan catalogue. Lyrically it is suggestive with some searching soulful lines but they are built on simple three chord guitar structures, (which is no bad thing by the way) but they never really shake the foundations. Then having a slide guitar play out on nearly every track, free to wander like some zig-zagging drunk driver, just confuses and ultimately adds nothing to this so-so and sometimes bland collection of songs. Maybe more varied instrumentation would help to enhance the overall sound of the recordings.

Comparable act The Thrills' last album just offered so much more in terms of harmony and shades of intensity and, unfortunately, the Deadstring Brothers just leave me feeling like a distant cousin.

Only the tracks 'lay me down', the opener 'I'm not a stealer', and "27 hours" see the band, lyrics and music gel properly whilst the closing track 'the long black veil' with its pleasant story-telling has charm.

Maybe a few tours and recording stints will help the band to nurture their evidently soulful spirit to create more cohesive, startling songs but for now the road ahead appears to be only a long and winding one.