Monday, October 26, 2009

Wild Women at Work: Those Darlins Redefine 1950s Country Glam


t's been three years running for Those Darlins, but the release of the band's self-titled debut album made it all worth the wait. These three girls from our college town are anything but ordinary.

With their powers combined, Kelley Darlin on bass, Jessi Darlin on guitar and Nikki Darlin with the baritone ukulele form a version of 1950's country glam and grunge rock that's nothing short of June Carter riding a Harley. Everyone in the band sings and everyone writes, and even though the girls record out of New York and have played at festivals such as Bonarroo and Athfest, the band pays tribute to its Tennessee roots with stylish cowboy boots and a genuine love for whiskey.

"This isn't a show, it's a party," Jessi says.

It's clear the band wants its fans to contribute and participate during shows. From dance contests to guitar solos and shedding clothes, it's impossible to know what to expect from these ladies.

Those Darlins don't foresee any immediate change in their style, though. In fact, by starting its own record label, Oh Wow Dang Records, it further declared individuality and secured a sure-fire way to avoid conformity with the modern country singers.

By standing out, Those Darlins have won over sponsors and contributors such as Blublocker Sunglasses, which agreed to sponsor the band's tour. This comes as a shock, considering Blublocker Sunglasses hasn't supported any musical act since the Oak Ridge Boys. Blublocker Sunglasses even gave away free sunglasses to the first 1,000 people to pick up the "Those Darlins" vinyl that was released to indie record stores on June 20.

As for the band, it will be in Murfreesboro for a little while longer, but on July 10 the girls will be celebrating the CD release at Southpaw in Brooklyn, N.Y. The band will also be stopping on the way to play concerts in New York City and Arlington, Va.

Basically, if you didn't get the chance to see Those Darlins at the Mercy Lounge- a road trip should be in your immediate future because these girls definitely put on a hell of a show.

No comments:

Post a Comment