Two Dollar Buffet (Dry River Bed, 1999)
Quick Drawl
Reviewed by Eli Messinger
Led by singer-songwriters Joe Ridout and John Troutman, Quick Drawl meshes two distinct musical personalities. Ridout's songs lean more toward country, folk and bluegrass. His instrumentals, "Deadwood Sam," "Ditchin' the Cops" and "Jackie, Let's Get Loaded For Free," provide the band a chance to show off their impressive instrumental chops. His beautiful "Hold the Bag," echoes the poetry and vocal harmony of Simon & Garfunkel.
Troutman, on the other hand, is a man on the move - both lyrically and musically. Many of his songs take place on the road, from the brooding nighttime escape of "Road Signs" to car trips towards discovery ("Lydleburg") and salvation ("Iron Brand"). His reach takes the four-piece lineup further afield, showing off the band's versatility.
Given their excellent musicianship and solid, serious songwriting, Quick Drawl speaks a lot more clearly than their name might imply. (5425 E. Broadway Blvd, #192, Tucson, AZ 85711, E-Mail: mediabm@primenet.com,)
©Country Standard Time • Jeffrey B. Remz, editor & publisher • countrystandardtime@gmail.com
About • Copyright • Newsletter • Our sister publication Standard Time