When it comes to any form of traditional music, the one element that always captures someone’s attention is authenticity. When present, not only do the songs come from a relatable place which the listener can grasp, but the performers present it in a manner that reflects true understanding and life experience.
Appalachian Road Show certainly fits this bill. From the time the group formed in 2018, they sought to present original music with a focus on their Appalachian heritage. The group’s latest release, Della Jane’s Heart on Billy Blue Records, brings elements of longing, sacrifice, and heartache – along with fun and excitement.
The title track, Della Jane’s Heart, by Wes Baylis and Jason Cope, tells a story wrapped in emotion, even more so heightened by the powerful lead vocals of banjoist Barry Abernathy. His sensitive delivery makes for a captivating listen. Along with Abernathy, Appalachian Road Show consists of Jim VanCleve on fiddle, Darrell Webb on mandolin, Todd Phillips on bass, and Zeb Snyder on guitar.
Won’t Be Long on the other hand is an uplifting song. Written by Cahalen Morrison, this song’s refrain offers us a reminder that all of life is temporary. Victor Furtado appears as a guest on this track adding clawhammer banjo to the group’s earthy stylings.
Hell Broke Loose In Georgia is an instrumental that places Jim VanCleve and his fiddle front and center. This track captures the energy that Appalachian Road Show exudes during a live performance, as does Possum Up A ‘Simmon Tree and Big Eyed Rabbit.
Virginia Soldier and Long Time Traveling are both stand out selections. The former by Zane Williams tells the tale of a young soldier who knows that he won’t be returning home alive, while the latter is an a cappella piece with a strong focus on Abernathy and Webb’s vocal harmony.
Della Jane’s Heart once again captures the physical and emotional weight of the Appalachian lifestyle through compelling, relatable material. If there’s one band who epitomizes authenticity and innovation, it’s Appalachian Road Show.
