You’ve heard the Austin Music Minute rave about this before, and this shall not be the last time. Down To the River, Mother Merey & The Black Dirt‘s full-length debut, became an instant AMM favorite because of its old-timey roots feel. But before you go labeling this as a “revival,” step back to admire the extraordinary approach of this trio. It’s more of a faithful deconstruction and invigorating rebuilding of traditional American folk. Featuring vocalist Merey Kimbrough on washboard, Eric Witthans on dobro and percussion, and Kevin Allen on harmonica, the band’s affinity for raw, gritty Delta blues and mountain folk honors the musical traditions of the past while moving forward on an ever-evolving path; it’s what keeps the music sounding fresh and brings it to new fans.
This month, Mother Merey & The Black Dirt has its last set of Tuesday night residencies for awhile at the Hole In the Wall, 2538 Guadalupe. You can see them play there tonight, along with The John Doe Stompers and The Jankies. Get there around 9 p.m. Recommended.
