There are times when you get quite philosophical. You hear a band like Viper Central and you can hardly help yourself and soon you are pondering why so many bands seem in awe of the past. You see, Viper Central , with their album “Thump & Howl”, excel at the kind of rosy revivalism that gets your gun fearing part time urban cowboy all excited these days.
That may have seemed a touch harsh but Viper Central, as I am sure they are well aware, are peddling their old timey bluegrass wares in a very, very busy market with many a band selling the same style of misty eyed music. There is no doubting the standard of musicianship on show here with those banjos, fiddles and dobros getting soundly plucked and bowed while Kathleen Nisbet’s voice is never less than enticing and the songs are as traditional in their execution and inspiration as it is possible to be without actually being made of shellac so it is not hard to see how easily this band’s music would be accepted.
“Thump & Howl” is a near perfect example of the cult of revivalism but if you want to really hit the heritage trail then you should seek out those old Mamou Cajun Radio LPs on the mighty EBay.
In the meantime, “Thump & Howl” is available from CD Baby.