I don’t know what it is about Canada lately. I’ve been digging countless bands from our neighbors to the north. Killed about 10 Molsons last weekend and I even watched 3 games of the Stanley Cup, including that one into triple overtime. I’m about a week away from saying aboot and sporting a Barry Melrose inspired mullet. The John Henrys are another outstanding Canadian outfit to cross my path.
I’ve been listening to a long list of Canadian bands recently - The Acorn, Ox, Deep Dark Woods, and Plants & Animals, just to name a few. This five-piece hails from Ottawa and have put forth one of the better alt-country efforts I have heard this year.
The John Henrys mix in a little 60’s inspired garage sounds with the usual twang you expect in a quality alt-country act. Oft-compared to Gram Parsons, the boys start with the title track reminds me of an early Eagles tune with its sweet, subtle harmonies. That track is followed by the more deliberate “Lost In The Canyon” which clocks in at 6 minutes and starts with a line that grabs you, “Well she got lost in the canyon, with the needle on the 45.”
The boys also show an easy-going sound on sing-alongs such as “Ain’t Gonna Drink No More” and the tongue-in-cheek “No More Rock N Roll.” Other favorites include “Eldorado” and “Golden Train,” which is a fitting song considering the band’s namesake.
If you consider yourself a fan of the No Depression, alt-country sound and have long considered growing a quality mullet, then pick up Sweet As The Grain. There’s something aboot it that I am sure you will enjoy.
The John Henrys - Sweet as the Grain
