Pokey LaFarge’s fourth full-length and self-titled album, released via Third Man Records, is another set of polished “Riverboat Soul” (a term coined by Pokey himself) which is a combination of Western swing, 20’s jazz and country blues. LaFarge’s country drawl and subtle twang accompanied by brass, banjo, lap steel and fiddle nicely captures sounds of the 20’s over a collection of twelve songs. Highlights include: the ode to Louisville “Home Away From Home”; the lighthearted call and response tune “The Devil Ain’t Lazy”; opener “Central Time” which is a nod to his Midwestern beginnings; and the timeless jazzy blues track “What the Rain Will Bring.” If you like old timey music, look no further for one of the year’s most engaging releases. – Written by JFelton
SIMILAR | Bob Wills & His Texas Playboys, Justin Townes Earle, Jimmie Rodgers, Bessie Smith, Squirrel Nut Zippers, Washboard Rhythm Kings