Old Crow Medicine Show Album, Tour

“The Clash of bluegrass music… an American Band - even more so than Grand Funk Railroad!” — producer Don Was.

By Fred Mills

Twangin’ Americana merchants Old Crow Medicine Show have just announced the impending release of Tennessee Pusher, due to drop Sept. 23 on Nettwerk. It’s produced by none other than Don Was (of Was Not Was, also producer for Dylan, the Stones, Bonnie Raitt and scores more), and is described by the label along lines of “13 infectious tracks that offer a virtual American road trip, populated with characters that seem to span a century of the South. Down and outers, hustlers, freighthoppers - these are just a few of the archetypes we meet along the way. OCMS continues to create their special blend of American roots, rock, blues and country, but on the new album the band has truly found their own voice.”

The album comprises a dozen originals plus a cover of “Always Lift Him Up” by Blind Alfred Reed, and it also features a pair of stellar guests: drummer Jim Keltner and keyboardist Benmont Tench. Tennessee Pusher is preceded by a digital EP on July 29 titled Caroline; both the title track and “Next Go ‘Round” are from the full-length album.  The EP also includes an exclusive bonus track called “Back To New Orleans.”

 Don Was sang the band’s praises in a statement:  “People ask me what The Old Crow Medicine Show are all about. If I’m in a hurry, I just say that they’re The Clash of bluegrass music, but that doesn’t really do anyone any justice. I could tell ‘em that they’re a rock ‘n roll band who use fiddles and acoustic guitars instead of Les Pauls and Marshal stacks, but that’s only one small part of the story. They’re an American Band - even more so than Grand Funk Railroad! In fact, it’s not hyperbolic to say that, as musicians, songwriters and singers, they are the smartest and finest purveyors of American music to come down the pike in decades.”

Track listing:

1. Alabama High-Test        

2. Highway Halo    

3. The Greatest Hustler of All  

4. Methamphetamine      

5. Next Go 'Round

6. Humdinger 

7. Motel in Memphis         

8. Evening Sun

9. Mary's Kitchen           

10. Crazy Eyes

11. Tennessee Pusher