Americana uk review
Dig Me A Hole
8/10
“their songs borrow from rockabilly, soul and hard rock and somehow blend these diverse influences together to create that rare thing in roots music — a unique signature sound.” “it is Johnson’s voice which acts as a the primary focus throughout. Sultry on ‘Hold On’, soulful on ‘The Chapel’, menacing on ‘El Diablo'; her vocals exhibit grit without ever sacrificing warmth, passion without descending into histrionics.” “Happily, the band as a whole are equal to Johnson’s formidable presence, providing her with robust, punchy backing. Their basic string-band underpinning engendered by all the banjo and mandolin is augmented by broader brushes of tonal colour, such as electric guitar, organ and even horns. These arrangements are judiciously applied throughout and rarely compromise the organic hue of the sound.” ‘Dig Me a Hole’ is a remarkably solid and enjoyable album which should both consolidate and extends the reliable reputation the Barker Band have already established.To read full review please click link below
http://www.americana-uk.com/reviews-cd-live/latest-cd-reviews/item/the-barker-band-dig-me-a-hole
Album Review Country Music People
Dig Me A Hole
4 Stars
” the songwriting and playing has sophistication that rewards repeated listening. In nella Johnson they have a talented and versatile vocalist who sings lead on eight of the eleven songs and moves effortlessly between the varied styles.” ” Johnson sounds like Dusty in Memphis on Hold On,” “They are accomplished songs with attractive melodies that contain some alternative takes on their subjects.” “The post modern mixture of styles seems totally natural”CMP Magazine
5 stars
“They seem to have jumped into a different league with the release of Sorry For The Kissing.”
Maverick Magazine
4 1/2 stars
“This CD is so good you can just put the repeat button on and let it play over-and-over again.”
Sorry For The Kissing Review Jun 09
Patrick Wilkins, Americana-UK on SXSW
“They were having such a good time their joy in what they were doing was infectious”
John Goodspeed, San Antonio Express-News
“The Barker Band kicked it off with a solid set of simple music made intricate by the musicianship and blend of vocals.”
Craig Shelburne, Country Music Television
“The very first band I saw at South By Southwest (SXSW) this year really knocked me out. They’re called the Barker Band, and they’re from London. Reminds me of Old Crow Medicine Show’s early monthly gigs days at Station Inn, as well as the energy of the Avett Brothers. The Barker Band could go just as far. “
Steve Lamacq, Radio2
“Somewhere in an alternative universe, where there are no manufactured bands and corporate music, this band is walking off with the Mercury Prize”
Folk and Roots
“Sorry For The Kissing is an addictive collection of bitter sweet songs that explore new territories without ever really departing from that home-grown rootsy sound and harmonies that make The Barker Band so special.”
Lisa Paulon Director of the Camden Crawl
“I saw The Barker Band and they just blew my head off. They’re amazing, very proud of their banjos.”
New album ”Dig Me a Hole”
Uncut Magazine
3 stars “Terrific third LP.. Nella Johnson supplies a killer touch of class throughout”
Sorry For The Kissing Review June 2009