Portsmouth-based alternative rock and country band Black Mountain Tabernacle first hit my radar around this time last year through their self-titled EP. Now they’re back with a new record that’s equally piqued my interest.

By Graeme Smith

Black Mountain Tabernacle saw the seasoned musicians Preacher and Stonepicking making an early foray as the band of the same name, and now their new EP The Dirt Farmer sees them push their sound further.

The Dirt Farmer is a story and a social comment. It casts light on modern day capitalism and how unethical it can be, all told through the eyes of a fictional protagonist who is struggling to make his way in it. Its four tracks come together to tell a wider tale, while each have something to say in their own right.

Opening things is the title track which introduces us to the character of Billy Ray. There’s plenty of traditional country elements on display, but Black Mountain Tabernacle give it a certain grunge rock twist that highlights the darker elements of the genre. There’s also something distinctly British about their approach, with jangly guitar and a rumbling melody.

Goldrush softens things with some melancholic folk before Blackday gives us a brooding moment that is the story’s emotional low-point. Billy Ray rounds the collection off with some severe rock. A punchy groove underpins echoing guitar moments as the tale comes to a head.

Black Mountain Tabernacle are an act who are really finding their stride. If you’re a fan of modern dark country then you need to check out their music.

The Dirt Farmer was recorded, engineered and co-produced by Jake Skinner in his converted barn Brighton Road Studios in Sussex. It was mastered by Ben Pike at Raretone Mastering in Leeds. Featuring on the record are Alfie Woods on bass and Fred Hill on drums.

You can give the EP a listen below.