Deadstring Brothers - Sao Paulo [CD]

Bloodshot Records

November 19, 2009, 12:16 AM

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by Rob H [More from this Author]

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Deadstring Brothers are an American 6-piece band from Detroit, MI that plays a bluesy brand of Alt-Country. They have released 4 albums since 2001. Their fifth release, “Sao Paulo” was just released on the Bloodshot Records label.

The first thing I will say is this entire album sounds like the Rolling Stones’ “Exile on Main Street.” That is a bad thing in that this is not an original sound, but it is also a good thing in that “Exile” was a fantastic album with a great sound. The Deadstring Brothers, fronted by husband and wife duo Kurt Marschke and Masha Marjieh write some solid songs and play them with authenticity and heart.

I can’t see how Deadstring Brothers could possibly object to the comparison, particularly since in songs like ‘It’s a Shame’ lead singer Kurt Marschke does his best Mick Jagger impersonation and the lilting guitar riffs Spencer Cullum lays down on steel guitar seem designed to imitate the sound. If you are looking for fresh, ground breaking Rock, keep moving because you won’t find it here. However, if you’re looking for genuine, well-executed old school Rock with Blues and Country roots, this is the real deal.

‘Smile’ is an anthemic rocker with a stomping beat, Hammond organ, and fat harmony vocals. ‘Adelee’ not only reminds me of the Stones, it is a sweet love ballad of high enough quality that it could BE the Stones. ‘Yesterday’s Style’ is a full on Country ballad with a little accordion and groaning vocals. It’s the kind of song you break out in a bar at 1:30 AM when everyone’s drunk and folks sing along.

Some of the songs are less successful. They play ‘Houston’ hard, but it is a forgettable melody that comes off as filler. ‘Can’t Make It Through the Night’ is a bit repetitive and the hook isn’t strong enough to support it. In spite of a few weak tracks, however, overall “Sao Paulo” is a strong release that succeeds admirably. Deadstring Brothers know who they are and do exactly what they set out to do. Most of the disc is full of crowd-pleasing good time Rock n’ Roll that proves they DO still make ‘em like they used to.