Americana is a term that many use to describe red, white and blue nostalgia-- the collecting of flags, patriotic memorabilia, or any other artifact related to our country's storied history; however, to a music fan, it defines the melting pot genre of music that embodies the heart and soul of American ethos. Combining country, folk, rhythm & blues, and rock & roll, Americana (also referred to as Alternative Country) is baseball, hamburgers, hot dogs, Ford Model T's, and Elvis on a toasted bun.
San Francisco based Or, The Whale's 2009 ode to Jimson Weed, "Datura," is a perfect example of the genre and the feeling. Lead vocalist and guitarist Alex Robins struts over a beautiful arrangement full of folk chords, slide guitars, frolicking keys, and infectious harmonies from Lindsay Garfield; a poisonous combination powerful enough to make any listener hallucinate under a sky of apple pie.
After the release of their critically acclaimed 2007 release Light Poles and Pines, and their 2009 self titled follow up, Or, The Whale continues to woo music enthusiasts around the US with their complex yet polished sound. With the growing popularity of bands like Fleet Foxes, Blitzen Trapper, and The Avett Brothers, it's only a matter of time before San Francisco's best kept secret is revealed...and then treasured like polaroids, stamps, and old family recipes.
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