Highway Wolf is a unique musical project led by Mick Hellman and his creative partners, Tal and Amber Morris. Their music is created with a transformative journey in mind, and their latest EP Purdie’s Dream has soul in spades! It’s a folky record, ideal for those into their Americana music. See what I thought of the EP below
By Jane Howkins.
Back in the High Life Again kicks things off nicely – it’s got a typical Americana sound, also introducing elements of country, folk and bluegrass. The banjo is particularly gorgeous here, playing along to the main melody, as occasional slide guitar motifs break off in the background. The vocals harmonise in lovely style on the chorus, creating a singalong quality for all.
In the City is up next, creating a very different sound to the previous song. It’s actually pretty jazzy, introducing a honky-tonk piano melody that would also suit an old school rock and roll tune. The piano is the real stand out point here, although the guitars and rhythm section also add something very special into the mix. It’s much more upbeat, making you want to tap your toes along instantly!
Father and Son takes the tone back down again – it’s actually a cover of the famous Cat Stevens track, building nicely upon the folky vibes of the original tune. However, more instrumentation is added, as the low vocals sing the melancholic lyrics in a suitable way. I’m not normally a massive fan of covers, but when it’s done this well, what’s not to love?!
Blue Letter is more of a fully fledged rock and roll song, sounding like something straight out of the 70s! The frantic beat has a danceable quality, followed perfectly by the upbeat guitar riffs and organ. There’s also a pretty cool guitar solo towards the end, showing just how skilled Highway Wolf really are!
Silver Springs is the final track on the record, going back to the Americana sound that opened the EP up. It’s much slower and more stripped-down than the last track, really letting the vocals shine through. It’s actually pretty beautiful at times, marking another highlight for me!
Highway Wolf are an extremely impressive act, utilising a variety of different styles within Purdie’s Dream. I can’t wait to hear what they come up with next time around!
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