Recently, the Nashville-based DIY band Damned Rivers released their 12-track Americana folk-rock debut album.
The album, The Pugilist, is a trip through a dozen well-written and performed songs. Interestingly, even with all of those other genres swirling about, the band’s sound possesses a punk-like edge that lightly coats its unique style.
The album shines with clever lyrics, emotive vocals, and well-honed instrumentation from the full band (could even say ensemble) in which each band member gets a chance in the spotlight.
This is achieved effortlessly. And if you are a boxer, you may appreciate this album even more so thanks to standout tracks include “Pulling Punches,” “Bookend,” “Throwing Down The Gloves” and “Built to Last.”
But don’t let the Americana folk labeling fool you – these guys enjoy rocking out and they do it well with multiple guitars going, piano, bass, cymbals, and drums. There is also a vein of Southern country rock running through the album.
The Tennessean band employs robust musical dynamics with earthy tones and gripping, memorable lyrics about the triumphant of transformation and recovery.
The album follows the tale of a washed-up boxer at the end of his career grappling with what he will do with his life.
In essence, the story was spurred by hard times that befell the band’s lead songwriter, Ian Mauldin. He decided to tell the story through that of the life of a boxer because of the battles, bruises, and gusto that marked his path.
The ultimate message is one of hope. Hope is what drives the human spirit through the worst of times. When it’s set to fine music as Damned Rivers has done on this record, that makes it even more special.
In addition to Mauldin, the band members are Mark Summarell, Kyle Hassenfratz, Ricky DeMeo, and Annie Johnson.
Recommended FFO: Mac Demarco, Kurt Vile, Bright Eyes or Deer Tick.
