The Colorado-based boys of Leftover Salmon are serving up another helping of what they like to call “polyethnic Cajun slamgrass.” Their self-described style is in a class of its own, yet the label helps to explain the otherwise hard-to-describe eclectic blend: a structure of rock, folk, Cajun and country built on a bluegrass foundation.
While the band’s music is usually credited with a playful and energetic attitude, the self-titled March 23 release proves to be a bit more subdued. This isn’t to say the band has gone mellow. They’ve just taken their energy to a more laid-back level.
Releasing their first studio album in five years, the band has inevitably matured. The new album finds them showing yet another side that still lays claim to the style that is unique to Leftover Salmon. Keeping all of the usual sounds in their mix, the band has opted for a stronger bluegrass feel than usual. Acoustics serve as the primary base in most of the melodies, with the banjo repeatedly taking center stage.
“Down in the Hollow” is the perfect album opener with its upbeat personality and alluring vocals by band-member Drew Emmitt. The track is full of the skillful musicianship that has always been a key ingredient in the success of Leftover Salmon.
“Delta Queen,” a tribute to New Orleans, is unfortunately four and a half minutes of down-time for the album, but the following track immediately counteracts the potential energy loss with an upbeat instrumental ballad.
In case you start longing for the playful feel of the “festival,” “Everything is Round” serves to remind listeners of the band’s fun-loving attitude and approach to their music. Highlighting the album are the enchanting sounds of “Whispering Waters.” The nine minute recording features a lengthy jam that sheds light on the grace and dynamic beauty of the piano.
If anything is lacking on the CD, its compensation can be credited to excellent production. The boys owe it to Bill Payne of Little Feat, who brought the album to life with a beautiful recording job. The clean production enhances the unique addition of each instrument, creating a successful result.
While there are points in the album that leave you wishing for the sensation of a live Salmon show, Leftover Salmon still surges with personality. Despite a few empty moments, the band never seems to fail when giving fans another tasty helping of Salmon.