Album Review: American Roots And Machines by Craig Kinsey
Alright, let’s dive into American Roots And Machines by Craig Kinsey. Released in 2014 under Splice Records, this indie rock and country rock gem feels like a road trip through dusty highways, small-town bars, and big emotional landscapes. It's got grit, heart, and just enough twang to keep things interesting.
First off, the tracklist is packed with variety—some songs feel raw and stripped-down, while others are layered with rich harmonies and unexpected features. Two tracks that really stuck with me? “Puccini’s Drunk Again” and “What Is It That You Want (feat. Alicia Gianni & Emily Bell).”
“Puccini’s Drunk Again” hits you right away—it’s kinda chaotic but in the best way possible. The title alone makes you go, "Wait...what?" But once the music kicks in, it’s clear this isn’t your typical drinking song. There’s something about the mix of humor and melancholy here that grabs you. Like, yeah, Puccini might be wasted, but there’s also this deeper sense of longing underneath all the mess. Plus, the instrumentation has this loose, almost reckless energy that matches the vibe perfectly. You can practically picture someone stumbling around, trying to figure out life one whiskey at a time.
Then there’s “What Is It That You Want.” Oh man, this one floored me. Featuring Alicia Gianni and Emily Bell, it’s got these soaring vocals that just lift the whole thing up. The lyrics are simple yet super relatable—like, who hasn’t been stuck in a moment where they’re asking themselves (or someone else), “What do you even want from me?” The harmonies between the singers add this beautiful tension, making the question feel both desperate and hopeful at the same time. By the end, you’re not sure if you’ve got answers, but dang, does it sound good.
One thing I gotta mention is how Kinsey balances fun and seriousness throughout the album. Songs like “I’m Not Part of a Scene” have this rebellious edge, like flipping the bird to anyone who tries to box him in. Meanwhile, tracks like “To Kill a Mockingbird” take you somewhere more reflective and quiet. And don’t even get me started on “New World Now (feat. St. Mathew’s Baptist Church Choir)”—that choir gives the song this gospel-like power that’ll give you chills.
Honestly, what stands out most about American Roots And Machines is its authenticity. It doesn’t try too hard to impress; instead, it lets the stories and sounds speak for themselves. Listening to it feels like hanging out with an old friend who’s seen some stuff, made mistakes, and still finds joy in the little things.
So, would I recommend this album? Absolutely. Whether you’re into indie rock, country rock, or just looking for something real, Craig Kinsey delivers. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself humming “Puccini’s Drunk Again” while wondering what it’d be like to share a drink with him. Or maybe that’s just me.
Oh, and here’s the kicker: after listening to this album, I realized it’s less about finding answers and more about embracing the questions. Kinda like life itself, huh?
