A special new talent
In evoking memories of classic American blues and jazz tinged with 60s psychadelia and folk Dan Korn has crafted four tracks to give the listener an introductory EP filled with poetry and passion. "Dustbowl" is a lovingly created set of songs that gives you that seldom felt 'Eureka!' moment that you get when you realise you're listening to something really special.
Reminiscent of The Beatles, Bob Dylan and the old 1940s jazz greats in his vocals it's a very clever and intriguing arrangement that marks Korn out as a definite keeper. What makes the vocals stand out further is the meaningful lyrics and to complete the triangle it's all backed up by some astounding instrumental work, particularly the variety of guitar styles offered.
As an introduction this EP draws a broad picture of what Korn can do and accomplishes its task very well in showing just how eclectic an artist he is. Opening with the languid and laidback title track 'Dustbowl', you're taken from the barren Depression era Dust Bowl lands to the smoky speakeasies of Chicago. It's a very old feel without feeling dated and echoes the sound that Black Rebel Motorcycle Club produced with their 'Howl' album. It's followed quickly the 60s pyschadelia tinged 'Song for Syd', in my mind the weakest sounding track of the four but still a stand out for its fabulous lyrics. 'Like a Dove' opens as a melancholic love ballad that would fit alongside "Plans" era Death Cab for Cutie but segues into a rock out blues track that has a similar feel to Jet's 'Are You Gonna Be My Girl'. It shouldn't work, but it does, and all I can say is that it's just brilliant. The EP closes with 'Lost Love Shanty' a folk song of the sea worthy of Bob Dylan and again showcasing what a great lyricist Korn is.
Enough praise cannot be heaped on this collection. It's eclectic but has a definite identity that is cohesive and says "this is who I am". As a debut it's remarkably mature and complete and has made me truly excited for what's to come. As soon as some London dates are released I want to see what he can do in concert because I think it could be a memorable experience. As a triple threat of great lyrics, vocals and instrumentals, Korn is a rarity in the current music scene and in my mind is an addition that is truly welcome.