As you'd expect, a sincere Shoals sound permeates the album, and there's a fair dose of the "southern alternative" sound exemplified in groups like Drive-By Truckers (which is to be expected, since guitarist/vocalist Rob Malone was once a member of DBT). Fiddleworms aren't a one-trick pony, though, as the diveristy of moods and rhythms on Volkswagen Catfish are a pleasant surprise.
First, the two vocalists (Malone and Russell Mefford) lend distinctly different styles to the songs they sing, and Malone's familiar country rumble fits right in behind Mefford's smoother sound when they harmonize. Beyond that, the band finds a way to work all kinds of different vibes into their rock and roll framework of bass, drums, guitars, keys, and vocals. Even in the first three tracks, there are 3 different moods - Malone's "428" has a classic uptempo southern rock sound, while Mefford's "Easy Girl" and "Heartbreak Escapade" bring jazz and reggae elements into the mix. These guys are talented performers and, aided by the production skill of Jimmy Nutt, present a full-bodied sound full of memorable solos and melodies at every turn. The epic "I'm Not the One" stuck with me in particular, and there's plenty to love about the whole album, like the prog-rock touches on the dark "When the Axe Fell," the New Orleans-scented "Strutting Duck," the classic country feel of "The Noble Lie" and "Crows," and the title track's ever-shifting time signatures and wealth of ideas.
First, the two vocalists (Malone and Russell Mefford) lend distinctly different styles to the songs they sing, and Malone's familiar country rumble fits right in behind Mefford's smoother sound when they harmonize. Beyond that, the band finds a way to work all kinds of different vibes into their rock and roll framework of bass, drums, guitars, keys, and vocals. Even in the first three tracks, there are 3 different moods - Malone's "428" has a classic uptempo southern rock sound, while Mefford's "Easy Girl" and "Heartbreak Escapade" bring jazz and reggae elements into the mix. These guys are talented performers and, aided by the production skill of Jimmy Nutt, present a full-bodied sound full of memorable solos and melodies at every turn. The epic "I'm Not the One" stuck with me in particular, and there's plenty to love about the whole album, like the prog-rock touches on the dark "When the Axe Fell," the New Orleans-scented "Strutting Duck," the classic country feel of "The Noble Lie" and "Crows," and the title track's ever-shifting time signatures and wealth of ideas.
I was skeptical about the band at first, but I'm a true believer in their music after a wonderful experience listening to Volkswagen Catfish for the first time. Their name and album artwork don't exactly inspire excitement for newcomers, but there's a price to pay for judging a book by it's cover. This disc is just full of great singing, amazing instrumental work, and flawless production. It's one great song after another, and each song reveals another facet of the band's ability. If you're visiting the HGMN site, chances are good that Fiddleworms deserve your further inspection and a good, long listen.
--Bryan Rodgers
I love this CD especially the song Rag Man and Noble Lie -- great write up.
this album is sick-- especially Noble Lie and I'm Not the One... oh, and Sympathize, oh, and Darkness -- the whole damn Cd is incredible!
Josh
I've given this cd quite a few listening's to, and I love it..
"Life would be tragic if it weren't funny."
- Stephen Hawking
I saw these guys in Chicago and they rock! The CD is one of the best I have heard this year and I cannot wait for them to come back.
MArtin
I dig those worms!
I've been to so many shows now this is my absolutely FAVORITE band! I got this CD shortly after it came out and it hasn't left my stereo since lol. I'm addicted, I definitely dig worms!
Volkswagon Catfish is one of the best CD's I've ever listened to! I'm not the one, Easy Girl, and Noble Lie are hands down my 3 favorite songs of all time. I can't wait to see them live!
I love the album. Keep up the amazing work.
So pretty much, I'm probably getting a fiddleworms t-shirt.
These guys are awesome.
Seriously.
If you have never seen these Worms live...GO...SEE...&FALL IN LOVE!
I dig those worms.
Worm Digity Good!!! MMMMMM.....
This band just plain rocks!
Yep, the word is out on the Fiddleworms as far away as Sweden. Having listened to good solid stuff for more years than I care to remember I must still admit that the Worms do stand out: they effortlessly move from rolling country rock into the psychedelic realms of the Dead, from smiling pop into wahwah-smothered reggae grooves, from a thoughtful ballad to a sweaty guitar workout. Always convincing.
I've got four treasured Worms CDs in my private stash. And last August I was luckily able to check out the Worms live @ The Boondocks, Guntersville AL. 1st set doing their own amazing thing, 2nd set backing up gifted singer/songwriter Pat Huggins (http://www.myspace.com/pathuggins) doing a strong row of his originals. Transforming into Pat's perfect backup band at short notice is a demanding task, but the Worms excelled at it. Rob's fluid Telecaster, Clint's tinkling keys... Awesome as they say. Awesome to a Swede too.
Christer Fridhammar
Göteborg - Sweden
http://www.fridhammar.com
I just discovered this band from a friend of mine and I picked up a copy of the album. I love the harmonies and great lyrics...seems like I have heard these guys forever...
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