Bains and crew roared through Boston last week. And when I say roar, I really mean it. Bains spent about a third of the set in the audience, mostly wailing on his guitar but ocassionally bringing his mic to sing in the midst of the crowd. Meanwhile the rest of the band — guitarist Eric Wallace and the brotherly rhythm section of Adam and Black Williamson — raged with their own musical fury.
Consider these guys the heir apparents of the Drive-By Truckers — a Southern rock band with a social and political conscience. Sure, they’ve proven time and again that they can rock harder than many a band performing today. What sets them apart, however, is Bains’ ability to chronicle life in the new South. The picture is a complicated one, and Bains pulls no punches when describing it in song.
This video of “Dirt Track,” from the band’s most recent album Dereconstructed, gives a taste of the band’s ferocious live show. I’m also sharing this particular video for another reason. Ever wonder what happens when you put a four piece rock band in an small enclosed space that also happens to contain two puppets that resemble Muppets? Watch and find out! (As far as I know, no puppets were injured. At least I hope not.)
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.