Search - Tishamingo :: Tishamingo

Finally

charlie Nelson | Birmingham, AL USA | 02/19/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I've been a Tishamingo fan for a few years now and I'm glad to see that the album has finally made it to the larger market, thanks to Innerstate Records. Anyone who has seen Tishamingo live knows what the Mingo is all about, but for you who haven't seen or heard them, imagine a hybrid between the Allman Brothers, New Riders of the Purple Sage, and the Meters. The southern rock influence is perhaps the biggest, but the handfulls of New Orleans funk they toss into the bag every now and then can't be ignored.The album opens with "First of the Day", a strange rant which I'm sure serves some purpose or another, maybe just for a few laughs. It flows well into the second track, "Wiskey State of Mind". The topic, alcoholism, may not be new to the southern rock genre, but it's all good because the beat is strong and the guitars are driving. Think Gov't Mule's "Bad Little Doggie" or "Fool's Moon". I've found that most everyone likes this song. "People See", the third track, is a unique song, blending country New Rider or Merle Haggard style guitar work and a funkier Dr. John side on the keyboards. This song isn't my favorite but has really grown on me, especially when it's played live. The fourth track, "Lazy Susan", is one of my favorites on the album. This is a very bluesy track; the opening chords ring of Clapton, the chorus is catchy, and the harmonies perfect. "Way Back Home" is the fifth track on the album and isn't the most immediately catchy tune on the disk. It begins with acoustic guitar, wich is a different sound than most Tishamingo songs. Once it gets rolling, however, it really clicks and does well, reminding me of an Allman Brothers ballad with dual slide guitars working their magic. The next track is "Lickety Split" and, like "Wiskey State of Mind", is a crowd pleaser: driving, sound, and study. "The Palmer March", the seventh track, is remeniscent of a Derek Trucks instrumental ballad, as it centers around a slide guitar. This song is often used in concert to move into a really strong, jamming song. The eighth track, "Tradition", is Jess Franklin's strongest vocal performance on the album. That added to beautiful guitars and keys makes this a simply great ballad. A country ditty, "Little Red", follows. It is a fun song and sounds like something you might hear in a honkytonk, but it is not the best on the albumn. "Pete's Lament", the tenth track, is a great slow blues tune. Cameron William's raspy vocals always come straight from the soul and it is evident here. Look out, John Bell. Although it's not high enenry or a huge crowd pleaser, it is one of the most musically sound songs they perform and the guitar work is excellent. "Turry and the Tellico Militia" has that New Riders sound and is another strong showcase for Cameron's vocals. This tune is sure to get everyone at the show on their feet as it is extremely catchy. It is my personal favorite on the CD. "El Perio Frio" is an acoustic instrumental that is well crafted but short, serving best as a vehicle into the album's last track, "Last Ride". "Last Ride" is another instrumental, but has a Latino sound added atop an Allman Brothers dual slide instrumental that jams into and out of a darker, Widespread Panic-like Jam. Think of Santana playing "Liz Reed" into a down and dirty "Thought Sausage": truely a good thing and a strong note to end on. The only (and I mean only) dissapointing thing about this album is that it never showcases their keyboard phenomenon that is Jason Fuller. Fuller is one of the very best keyboardists out there, period, and it is a shame that he doesn't play a larger role on the album. Despite Fuller being on the back-burner, this is a very solid effort from the Athens, GA based band. Every track is sound, which is why I still pop it into the CD player often, despite having owned it for over a year now. If they ever come to your area, make sure to check them out as they'll be sure to show you a good time."

A refreshing new spin on southern rock

charlie Nelson | 02/19/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"These boys know what they are doing! This is so refreshing that a group as young as Tishamingo has such an undeniable sound in the world that is southern rock. Between the impowering vocals and incredible slide guitar riffs, this band sounds experienced way beyond their years. But do not let that fool you. They add fresheness to a genre of music that usually can sound the same. The bluegrass and blues roots are definitely evident on this disc. I think everyone should buy this album if you like good ole rock-n-roll, and if you get a chance to check these boys out live-even better."