If you can't get rich trying...
From Denver, Colorado, Tin Horn Prayer bring what can be most aptly described as bluegrass-rock, with traits of country and punk also lingering in the air. Although the group begin their LP with the charming upbeat number 'Better Living', contrasting moods (in songs such as 'Memory') are refreshingly explored along the course of the album. The harmonica adopts a pivotal role in the music of this six-piece band, effortlessly teaming with both the acoustic qualities of mandolins and banjos or the electric sounds of guitars and basses ('Wretch' being a fine example of these juxtaposing styles). There is rarely any deviation from the chords and general harmonic style that one may expect from country/bluegrass music. However, discordance is applied in 'Crime Scene Cleanup Team' and encouragingly borders on contemporary, but ultimately seems jarring. It is a balancing act that the group will improve upon over time and although it does not quite work in this instance, their vision is reassuring.
Although the mix between the instruments has been managed admirably, the vocals often rest far too low in the mix. This may seem like a petty, even supercilious, comment to make but coupled with the grisly and indistinct nature of much of the vocals, it unfortunately makes the music quite arduous to listen to and can constantly demand the undivided attention of the listener in order to gain full lyrical appreciation. The vocals of songs such as 'Devil Makes Me' strike with a slightly better degree of clarity, this time using the gravelly vocals as an enhancement of strength underneath a purer vocal line. It seems to make a noticeable difference and as the album continues with the likes of 'Crowbait', the band's potential begins to radiate considerably.
'Get Busy Dying' is a good debut from the American sextet, which despite a couple of hindrances, undoubtedly shines with promise. The Bluegrass-rock combination works well for Tin Horn Prayer, but it will be interesting to see whether they now opt to retain their established vocal approach or refine it in pursuit of either clarity or coarseness. The former may seem to possess the most potential, but that is not to say that the rougher vocals exercised on this album are inadequate; far from it. Don't die on us just yet, Tin Horn Prayer!