Ray Lamontagne’s latest project might be the most un-Lamontagne album he has done, thus far, even though it’s the first album he has produced for his own self. God Willin’ & The Creek Don’t Rise, his fourth studio LP, was recorded in Lamontagne’s New England cabin with the help of his country, soul-brothers, the Pariah Dogs. Featuring the in-demand pedal steel of Greg Leisz, this record boasts a group feel that, understandably, hasn’t exactly been present in the previous efforts of the solemn, bearded one.
While most of the album elegantly ambles in the folky terrain of country music, there are some bluesy stompers that recall certain, earlier works, most notably Lamontagne’s stellar 2006 record, Til the Sun Turns Black. The lead single and the album’s standout track, “Beg Steal or Borrow” plays like a more laid back, less neurotic Ryan Adams tune from his prolific, Cold Rosesera. To be sure, that’s in no small part to the contributions of the aforementioned Mr. Leisz, wh is also a frequent collaborator of the eccentric Adams. Also, in the span of that specific tune, the trembling fender strat and shuffling beat just find a groove and live in it as if it went ahead and paid first and last months rent for it.
Certainly, Lamontagne has been a star as a folk-intensive, singer/songwriter, but this album and it’s beautiful set of songs is surely an Americana album of the highest order.
About the author: I likes me some wine, women and waffles, not always in that order (but usually). Chaucer is cool, but fart jokes are even better. You feel like spikin' your country with a little soul or mix in a little rock without the roll? Lemme hear from ya!!