Old 97’s bassist-singer releases new album
Rhett Miller is known as the lead vocalist of the Old 97’s, but Murry Hammond, the band’s bassist and singer, serves as its Western conscience. This distinction becomes evident with the release of Hammond’s second album, Trail Songs of the Deep, set to debut on July 11 under the Portland, Oregon, label Fluff & Gravy.
After a 17-year hiatus from solo projects, Trail Songs marks Hammond’s return to the music scene. His style is reminiscent of classic Westerns, evoking images of films by renowned directors like John Ford and Sergio Leone. The album showcases a collection of haunting Western noir tracks where Hammond seamlessly transitions between his dusky tenor vocals and eerie whistling. The musical ensemble is enriched by the contributions of pianist Annie Crawford, cellist Faith Shippey, and drummer Richard Hewett.
Despite residing in Los Angeles for many years, Trail Songs of the Deep finds Hammond reconnecting with his North Texas roots. Prior to co-founding the Old 97’s in 1992, Hammond was a member of the Deep Ellum-based Peyote Cowboys. The album’s lengthiest track, “Trinity River Bridge,” not only pays homage to Dallas but also to Boyd, a town in Texas that holds personal significance to Hammond.
Amidst the album’s nostalgically infused sounds and evocative storytelling, audiences are treated to a musical journey that traverses the open landscapes of the Western genre. Rich with themes of American frontier life, Trail Songs of the Deep taps into a cinematic quality that transports listeners to a bygone era. Hammond’s intricate compositions blend seamlessly with the talents of his fellow musicians, creating a sonic tapestry that resonates with authenticity and heart.
For fans of Old 97’s, Trail Songs of the Deep offers a rare glimpse into Hammond’s creative process beyond the band’s signature sound. The album serves as a testament to Hammond’s storytelling prowess and his ability to capture the essence of the American West through his music. With Trail Songs, Hammond invites listeners to embark on a musical expedition through the landscapes of the Old West, promising an immersive experience that echoes with the echoes of the past and present.