and by now the hounds have surely caught my scent
Rhode Island’s Deer Tick is a band that I have been following since first appearing on the scene in 2007 with their debut album, War Elephant. The group’s lineup has changed many times over the years, and as a result, the only consistent member is the frontman and songwriter John McCauley. McCauley possesses one of rock n’ roll’s most distinct voices: it’s characterized by a nasal grittiness which brings Kurt Cobain to mind, only with a bit more twang. Their sound encompasses many genres, but I suppose the easiest way to classify it is good ol’ Americana.
Since War Elephant, Deer Tick have had a steady string of releases: 2009’s Born on a Flag Day, and one of my favourites of last year, The Black Dirt Sessions. Released last week, Divine Providence is the newest batch of songs from McCauley and Co. Check out “Main Street,” as well as ”Clownin’ Around,” a folky tune overflowing with powerful religious imagery. The latter features another band member on lead vocals, although I can’t quite pinpoint who. Until now, I was certain that it was McCauley’s vocals which most drew me to Deer Tick, but dang, that song is impressive.
mp3: Deer Tick - Main Street from Divine Providence (2011)
mp3: Deer Tick - Clownin’ Around from Divine Providence (2011)
This version of “Christ Jesus” never ceases to slay me:
mp3: Deer Tick - Christ Jesus from The Black Dirt Sessions (2010)
Video: Deer Tick performing “Main Street” on Letterman. With horns!
