A.J. Roach – Dogwood Winter
Over the past few years folk-country Appalachian music has enjoyed a real renaissance with many high profile releases featuring traditional songs, styles and instrumentation. AJ Roach operates in a similar musical field, but where he differs is that he combines an authentic Appalachian sound with contemporary songwriting sensibilities and manages to capture the character of the region without reference to traditional material.
Although the songs aren’t traditional the lyrics are steeped in history, from his grandfather pressing fake 5 cent pieces, to running moonshine across state borders this is a collection of 13 tracks full of strong narratives and character.
The constant across the disc is Roach’s acoustic guitar and there’s lots of beautifully expressive fiddle work throughout, contrasting backing vocals are provided by three excellent female singers.
As you’d expect ‘Dogwood Winter’ is a predominantly melancholic affair, but there are sweet melodies throughout and Roach has a communicative and engaging vocal style; songs such as the title track, ‘Little Bit Brighter’ and ‘Mountain Heir’ are perfect examples of this bittersweet style, full of gentle and underlying sadness but with beautiful and delicate melodies.
‘Dogwood Winter’ is a stunning collection of songs that are lyrically excellent as well as being musically engaging and authentic.
ROACH AJ - DOGWOOD WINTER
Roach Aj
CD (Cat No: 12972)
ROACH AJ - DOGWOOD WINTER
