Before Carry Illinois entered the scene, front woman Lizzie Lehman had been a member of bluegrass-Americana outfit The Blackwells. Folk was in her roots, so to speak. And her introduction the Kerrville Folk Festival in 2008 was also key in Lehman’s decision to relocate to Austin in 2011. After The Blackwells’ breakup, Lehman shifted her focus to pop-rock and writing her own material. That was the birth of Carry Illinois.
Their music reflects practically everything Lehman loves, musically-speaking: All manner of 60s and ‘70s folk rock – Carole King, by the way, is her favorite songwriter of all time; the soul of Motown; classic pop; Americana, and music by distinctive artists from the ‘90’s like Shawn Colvin. Each of these influences are a presence in all the melodic layers you hear in Carry Illinios’ rich, shimmering sound.
Don’t miss Carry Illinois at their show tonight at the Mohawk, 912 Red River, on the inside stage. It’s an excellent bill with Star Parks and Saint Clair. Doors open at 9 p.m. So recommended.
– Photography by Pooneh Ghana.