March 4, 2005

{ The Woes - Coalmine EP }

Ever since I got ahold of this seven song EP, I just haven't been able to put it down. The Woes are sometimes a solo act, but more often are a three or five piece ensemble with an organ, harp, accordian, banjo, horn, or stand-up bass that all seem to cater to lead singer Osei Essed�s growling vocals ( a la Howlin Wolf or RL Burnside with a dash of Tom Waits). The Woes distinct brand of lowdown country blues will warm your heart and leave you pining for simpler times. The swampy banjo riff in "That's All Goodnight" will keep lingering around in your head long after the song is over. I�m not sure if it�s the subtle horn arrangements (as in �Pity�) or the wailing harp (on �Maureen�), but I suddenly find myself longing to be down in New Orleans with some hush puppies and cheap liqour in hand. The Woes perforn weekly at various NYC venues such as Tonic, Terra Club, Sidewalk Cafe, The Knitting Factory, CB�s 13, or The Apocalypse Lounge. The Coalmine EP is currently available at live shows. They are currently working on their second album. The Woes will have a website up and running soon, in the meantime check 'em out via their MySpace account and get a taste for yourself. - Written by Jay, read more of his reviews at Caffeine-Headache.net.

» Listen to The Woes

By Alan Smithee in Music, Reviews