DEADSTRING BROTHERS + Lasky+ Straylings

Fri 31st Oct 2008

The Luminaire presents
DEADSTRING BROTHERS
+ Lasky
+ Straylings

7.30 doors
£12 door

"This is real steel, and plenty else, too…a band who sit uncomfortable and warm." – [Mojo]

When the Detroit-based Deadstring Brothers released their critically acclaimed U.S. debut 'Starving Winter Report' in the winter of 2006, they took to the road, touring with sidemen on steel guitar while seeking a permanent collaborator with a shared vision. They found what they were looking for in London, where the Heavy Load club scene was packing in rock 'n’ roll fans who danced all night to bands like The Rolling Stones, The Black Crowes and The Allman Brothers. On meeting Spencer Cullum, a young pedal steel/guitar player with the love of warm, analog rock 'n’ roll, their mission was accomplished.

Rounding out the line up were Spencer’s brother Jeff on bass and fellow Brit Patrick Kenneally on piano and organ. This unique set of circumstances forged the band and sound that is now 'Silver Mountain'.

“Imagine Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Gram Parsons in their primes, transplanted to Detroit, laid off from the Ford plant, pissed off and ready to pound longnecks (if not rednecks) at the local saloon, and you’ll have some idea of the emotional weight and sonic power of Starving Winter Report. There is no best song here; the whole album is great. It’s loud, loose, ragged, and not far removed from a stomping, beer-swilling masterpiece.” - [Paste Magazine USA]

Recorded in the Deadstring Brother’s own recording studio, Silver Mountain boasts the tunesmanship of The Faces and the barroom howl of The Band stewed together in homage to the blues of the American South and dancehalls of the urban factory North - whilst never forgetting the importance of a good tune.

Not unlike Exile-era Stones, Deadstring Brothers deliver a menacing sound that draws equally on the melancholy of country ballads and the abandon of rock and blues. The bands music is deeply rooted in the storytelling and instrumental traditions of Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, and the American Outlaw Movement, but is also informed by the song structure and understated aggression commonly associated with Detroit bands.

Their haunting melodies reveal the influence of early '70s rock icons like The Band and Gram Parsons and The Faces. Deadstring Brothers live performances have the energy of guitar rock, but sophisticated arrangements, Hammond Organ and a focus on traditional American music separate them from many of their Detroit contemporaries.

'Silver Mountain' is a coming out party for sultry singer Masha Marjieh. Gritty and seductive, reminiscent of sixties-era Tina Turner, Masha steps into the spotlight on eight of the eleven tracks, showcasing her hot-blooded and lustful voice, leaving no doubt that the biggest heart in the room now belongs to this soulful vocalist. Harmonica player Mickey Raphael also took a break from his place alongside the great Willie Nelson, contributing to 'The Light Shines Within' and 'Slow Down'.

Raw and feverish, Silver Mountain is the sound of a band working at its peak, synthesizing common influences (regardless of one’s birthplace) with a modern edge. Cut from jaws of Michigan steel, East London pubs and honed from months on the never-ending road, the Deadstring Brothers testify to the soul-saving grace of rock 'n’ roll.

The band has been touring steadily since the 2004 release of their eponymous debut and have shared the stage with acts ranging from Shooter Jennings, Cat Power and Jesse Sykes to Giant Sand, My Morning Jacket, Drive by Truckers and the Mekons.

Lasky and Straylings support. Recently aired on Huw Stephen's Radio 1 show, Straylings excel in broody, mysterious indie with country/blues influences. Drawing inspiration from artists such as Mazzy Star, Neil Young, Fleetwood Mac and Patti Smith, their live performances are both intense and uplifting

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