[rating=3.00]
On Peasant’s new album, Bound For Glory, Damien DeRose puts together some solid acoustic folk pieces. Though the album in comparison to his previous ones, remains static, Bound for Glory is still able to provoke a feeling parallel to hot, lazy summer days, sepia colors, and tumble weeds.
DeRose grew up in Pennsylvania and in 2005 began his musical career touring the country with his guitar. Since then, he has compiled an impressive list of bands with whom he has collaborated with including: Cursive, Albert Hammond Jr, Dr. Dog, Steve Earle, Delta Spirit, and Deer Tick. Bound For Glory is Peasant’s third album and his first to be released with Schnitzel Records, and with a bit of luck, a self-fulfilling prophecy.
DeRose’s lyrics are repetitive and rhyming, his melodies are straightforward, and his motifs seem to revolve around the oh-so-common topic of love. Some may see this simplicity as boring, but then again, is not simplicity the very thing that makes a substance pure? Peasant seems to unfurl care-free songs raised on southern twang with added helpings of soul. The cynosure of DeRose’s music is undoubtedly his voice as it morphs subtly; it can quiver with emotion, gnaw at the southern heart, or bubble over with sappy pop.
Peasant can resonate with a younger generation as well as love-stricken older folks as "The Flask" and "Amends," can sound so juvenile at times that they verge on tunes reminiscent of children’s songs. The most surprising part of the recording is "Pretty Good” which added a much needed breath of lively rockabilly blues, a touch of Ray Manzarek keys, and a hint of some Stones. Similar to Band of Horses, Peasant seek the effect of having their unique vocals carve a trail off the beaten path so their mellow folk sounds can follow suit.
