No exaggeration; Down To the River, Mother Merey & The Black Dirt‘s full-length debut, became an instant Austin Music Minute favorite because of its old-timey roots feel. But before you go labeling this as a “revival” kind of work, step back to admire the extraordinary approach of this trio. What we have here is more of a faithful deconstruction and invigorating rebuilding of traditional American folk.
Featuring Merey Kimbrough on washboard, Eric Witthans on dobro and percussion, and Kevin Allen on harmonica, the band finds inspiration in country trails off the beaten path. Their affinity for raw, gritty Delta blues and mountain folk shines through on their album. There’s a great beauty within its simplicity.
Mother Merey & The Black Dirt has a Tuesday-night residency going on this month at the Hole In the Wall, 2538 Guadalupe. You can see them play tomorrow evening, along with The John Doe Stompers and The Jankies. Get there after 8 p.m. So recommended.
