The American soul, folk ‘n’ rock band from North Hills, California known as “Dawes” is comprised of two brothers and two friends:
The brilliant songwriter, Taylor Goldsmith (on guitars and vocals) with Griffin Goldsmith (drums): plus Wylie Gelber (on bass) and Tay Strathairn (on keyboards.)
They create smooth & authentic sounds that will remind listeners of Crosby, Stills, and Nash, Joni Mitchell and Neil Young.
The band have three live dates in Britain this month (August) including at the Shrewsbury Folk Festival.
Then a tour of Europe (with a hand-full of further dates in the UK) before returning to the United States.
They have also been announced for Castaway Weekend with Southern Ground and the Zac Brown Band in Riviera, Mexico — which takes place from January 27 -30 in 2016.
To prepare, we listened to “All Your Favourite Bands” (released on HUB Records) — which is their fourth studio (2015) album:
The album opens with the “Things Happen” and the flutter of Mayan drums. Then a soothing & sultry bass crawls through.
Guitars shine like bright head-lights glinting into the corners of your eyes.
The words seem completely real. As if your mind is about to explain things to you. A customized pep talk.
This is convincing, moving and intellectual. But it never stops being fun.
“Somewhere Along the Way” has regular chugs of rhythm and a gravelized ‘n’ husky voice that relates well with the darker, richer and fuller pop-folk sounds.
If you are looking for classy strummin’ & hummin’ with a conscience… And, of course, utter singalongability — look no further.
The title track “All Your Favourite Bands” is like a beautiful prayer…
Blessings to you and your family.
Listen carefully to each word, and take comfort in your good fortune. Everyone wants some small wish for their loved ones too.
The piano here is clean, and filled with melancholy whilst the guitar solo is desire-filled and optimistic.
“Right On Time” has rivulets of bass running through it and that stunning drumwork that we have come to expect.
The lyrics here are cozy, comfortable and nostalgic (though not predicatable)…And will doubtless bring you an ache… So deep inside.
This is song-writing perfection. And the voice, although it is always prayerful, is engaging enough for you to enjoy toe-tapping along.
This album has integrity, dignity and indisputable apptitude.
It’s an incredible accomplishment!
And, after listening to this, if DAWES does not become one of your favourite bands — then, frankly, there is no hope!
Words: @neilmach 2015 ©
Link: https://www.facebook.com/Dawestheband
RAW RAMP 