Connor Christian & Southern Gothic: 90 Proof Lullabies
Vintage Earth Music
Format: CD

Performing and recording “One Toke Over the Line” much as Brewer & Shipley did in 1971 wouldn’t necessarily mean that Connor Christian & Southern Gothic sound like other bands. To an extent, they do on 90 Proof Lullabies, Atlanta-based Christian’s second album. But the surprises begin with an engaging album-opening banjo riff, and the band keenly exploits the eternal charms of the Hammond B3 organ and the shimmering precision of lap and pedal steel guitars. As the album unfolds, unique touches multiply. Rather than merely imitate, Connor Christian & Southern Gothic manage their influences effectively, forging a distinctive alloy of roots, stretching melodies with pleasing chord changes, and providing respites from full-bore arrangements that can get tiresome. Some of Christian’s lyrics — he wrote ’em all, except “Toke” — show originality and seriousness. It’s a fine mix of styles, with nothing pretentious or belabored. More restraint could give Christian’s vocals, which are nearly always at high intensity, more power. Watch for this act to make a mark; in the meantime, listen up, and if one of their full-steam tours comes within reach, see ’em. . . . David Cantor