Into The Darkness

The Legendary River Drifters’ latest release, Into The Darkness, finds comfort in a traditional Americana sound, but also reveals a group of solid musicians who work far beyond the conventions of banjo-heavy folk. Lyrics rich in religious imagery run against classic drinking songs and stories rooted in Colorado history, creating a passionate, instrumentally diverse record that is anything but stale. The intricate, country-twinged melodies expose the Drifters’ skillful instrumentation, guitars and bass keeping a steady rhythm while mandolin, harmonica, and the graceful wobble of the saw float to the top. At the helm of the rousing energy is singer-saw player Suzanne Magnuson, whose powerful pipes steer the songs. Sounding like a feistier Emmylou Harris, Magnuson's expressive voice commands attention whether she's crooning about lost love or howling about whiskey.

Soulful song "The Prayer," grapples with death and religion, and while the singer wants to retreat and find comfort in religious rituals, this feeling is constantly at odds with disillusionment in faith. Using its strength in instrumentation, these genuine sentiments are complemented with a delicate, mournful mandolin melody. But the band isn't all introspection and dirges; on the bouncy but sinister "Soapy Rail Stomp," Magnuson's lead vocals sit out in favor of a crunchy male growl and haunting saw, adding to the folksy local fable. Told from the perspective of notorious Colorado con man Soapy Smith, the song showcases the Drifters' technical ability to create lush arrangements that tell stories just as well as lyrics can.

The Legendary River Drifters haven't reinvented anything on Into The Darkness—the themes and instrumentation are in line with what folk bands have been doing for years. But the band performs with such skill and authenticity that the album comes across solid, compelling, and completely charming.