Grain - an evocative pairing of poetry and raw guitar power.
Wayne Smith and Carla Simmons, the creative force of Grain, have been compared to Mazzy Star, Cowboy Junkies, Neko Case and Patty Griffin. Smith and Simmons draw inspiration from bands such as Humble Pie, Faces, Rolling Stones, Patti Smith, X, Merle Haggard, Hank Williams and Velvet Underground (to name a few). This Pittsburgh PA Band has been writing, recording, and playing shows, all over the country, for many years. Their latest studio effort highlights these influences creating Grain’s unique sound.
Although Grain’s first three records have been described as “70’s inspired Indie Rock”, their newest recording STILL embraces a more stripped down, reticent approach to songwriting/storytelling with acoustic guitars, mandolin, keys, an occasional stand-up bass, pure, present female vocals and beautiful harmonies.
STILL
Drawing from their roots in soulful 70’s rock with some Indie/Punk Rock attitude, Smith and Simmons have written a very personal, thought provoking set of songs, full of spirit and atmosphere. Feel winter’s dark edge in “Frozen Lake”, the understated angst of “Hold Back The Dam”, and the honest emotion of “Broken Pieces”. Get into the loose, country-tinged mood of instrumentals; “Waves”, “Front Porch, and “Ode to Ronnie Wood”. Included among the six original songs are three songs by artists that continue to inspire Grain. Moved by the death of singer Mark Lanegan, Grain pays tribute to Screaming Trees “Look at You” with haunting harmonies. Their take on Pink Floyd’s “Green is the Color” feels like a dreamy walk on the beach, and “Mansions for Me” written by bluegrass legend Bill Monroe is brought to life with mandolin and soulful three-part harmonies. Still full of the guitar dynamics and commanding female vocals Grain is known for, Smith and Simmons invite you to dim the lights, close your eyes and experience STILL.
