American music revivalist Pokey LaFarge jumps from Jack White’s Third Man Records to Rounder Records with his excellent release, Something In The Water. What sets LaFarge apart from other revivalists is that he writes the majority of his music which ranges over several genres on this album: country swing, honky-tonk, big band, pre-war blues and a little Spanish/gypsy/Klezmer influence. The label switch seems to have elevated LaFarge’s music to new levels with more polished production, a broader range of instruments, and higher quality backing musicians. Something In The Water, which was produced by Jimmy Sutton (JD McPherson, Cash Box Kings), lends a live-in-the-studio tone to the recording sessions that gives the album a vintage 78 quality yet balanced with a contemporary energy. Standout tracks include: the spirited title-track; the toe-tapper “Wanna be Your Man”; the swinging “Knocking the Dust Off the Rust Belt Tonight”; the traditional cover “When Did You Leave Heaven”; and the bluesy “All Night Long.” Pokey LaFarge delivers on Something in the Water, making traditional music feel fresh again and making for his strongest studio set to date. – Written by JFelton
SIMILAR | Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys, Justin Townes Earle, Jimmie Rodgers, Bessie Smith, Squirrel Nut Zippers, Washboard Rhythm Kings