Thoughtful lyricism rests at the heart of the Gary Douglas Band’s “Deep In The Water (Redeux)”. Deft storytellers, they paint a David versus Goliath struggle, one that proves to be depressingly familiar. Unlike so many other stories, this one finds justice. With a careful arrangement, they draw from Bruce Springteen’s common man tact, allowing for the piece to simply build up and up. Such a rich, vibrant sound they bring together Americana, the blues, and the singer-songwriter tradition in a perfect way. Vocals gain a soulfulness to them while they speak truth to power in a way that feels uniquely satisfying.
Not a moment is wasted for they dive right into it. Full of life, the pastoral beauty of the instruments betrays a deeper sense of sadness. The detail by detail breakdown of what leads to the pollution of the Ohio River becomes ever more familiar. Letting DuPont get exposed as the one bringing so much misery feels palpable, as is the righteous anger that ties the entire piece together. Going for the jugular the song builds that tension up. Rhythms become ever more uneasy, just slightly so, as the rest of the piece works itself up into a fine release. By rooting for the hurt, the downtrodden, the piece becomes a celebration of defeating the at times seemingly unstoppable evil of powerful men.
“Deep In The Water (Redeux)” shows off the impressive tact of the Gary Douglas Band as they tell the tale of the underdog.
The Gary Douglas Band – Deep In The Water (Redeux)
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