Looking a little shell shocked and bemused (probably jet lag) The Guthries quietly took to the stage and laid down their own brand of country music. Typically down-beat and laid back they carefully worked their way trough some great sounding stuff. A multitude of folky/country type instruments (mandolin, accordian, pedal steel etc.) were used to accompany some great vocals with some particularly good harmonies throughout. I felt that the overall sound tonight didn't do them justice. That said, The Guthries had a quality that was difficult to pinpoint - they held me with their great variety of country styles. Sometimes they came across as almost too low key but there was always something gnawing away at me - something quite appealing and pleasant. I think that for me it was their distinctly unusual style that held me - I like that off-the-wall stuff - I like that musical challenge!! I felt that their low key, no fuss act of original material taken from their two albums only hinted at their huge abilities.
Certainly, The Guthries are not your stereotypical country band and you won't see people barn or line dancing along with them. The term "alternative" does fit the bill quite well - it distinguishes them from the more mundane stetson and boots brigade.
I watched several people leave early tonight and realised that, generally, Worcester is not ready for The Guthries. I think that's a great pity because they're a fine young band with something a little different to offer. This country lane is one that I didn't mind walking down at all!!
I didn't come away thinking that I'd seen the best band for years but I did come away with a great deal of curiosity. I felt I needed more - and more I got because I had two newly purchased CD's in my sweaty hands and I have to say, after listening to them, these two little circles of musical plastic confirmed my belief that The Guthries are an extremely good band.
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