I have no doubt the first secular song ever written was a love ballad. I’m equally certain the second tune was about being away from home and longing to return. Denver’s Clay Street Unit just released their debut full length album, and while they don’t call that out as any kind of unifying theme, a lot of the record touches on that journey, whether physical or emotional. It’s called Sin & Squalor, and is generally equal parts bluegrass and country, anchored by driving bass and drums that keep everything moving along.
CD opener Nothing Else Matters‘ first line is “I’ve been gone far too long.” It’s in the vein of progressive bluegrass and goes on to tell the tale that, “I’ve been loved a time or two, darling none compare to you.” In a similar style is Virginia, where “I would drive my last mile just to see that Blue Ridge one more time” is more of a metaphorical journey. Choctaw County has a more laid-back sound. It matches the world weariness of lead singer Sam Walker’s vocals with richness from guest vocalist Lindsey Lou in a story of high school sweethearts who went their separate ways but now realize, “wasting my time with you would be the best days of my life.”
The country music spotlight shines brighter on Let’s Get Stoned. Pedal steel drives a narrative from Walker about a couple struggling to make ends meet (the sin and squalor from the album title), and while they may be a bit down they are certainly not out because they have each other. Rollin‘ plays on the idea that a house is no longer a home because she’s moved on, and while it’s not what you dreamed of, it is what it is. The record finishes with Way Over Yonder, a slow country waltz. This time the house is a home, and multi-generational from the sound of it. But there’s still a longing for “way over yonder, we’ll meet again someday.”
Clay Street Unit’s first release was an EP literally cut in a single evening. There’s certainly something to be said for capturing the moment. But with all the time together, their new batch of songs weaves some introspection into common themes. Instrumentally they’ve also matured their sound, with pedal steel and drums playing off the banjo and mandolin in a way you don’t normally hear. Put it all together and Sin & Squalor will be an early highlight to your musical year.
About the author: I've actually driven from Tehatchapee to Tonopah. And I've seen Dallas from a DC-9 at night.