The Public’s weekly local music reviews and previews. 

Album:  Not Far From The Tree by Uncle Ben’s Remedy  Recommended if you like:  The Byrds, John Prine, Guy Clark

“Roots grow deep in fertile soil” reads a statement by Uncle Ben’s Remedy regarding their new album Not Far From The Tree. This is a good thought to ruminate on while diving into the 10-track record, as it hammers out well polished yet uninhibited roots rock songs. The album sounds like the inside of an acoustic guitar smells; earthy, organic, and natural. The first sounds heard on the album are those of birds chirping on the opening track, “Fire in the Field,” a super polished country rock song that takes on anthemic qualities with a call to the good old boys and girls down to the bon fire.

Throughout the rest of the record, the band, singer Ben Westlund, banjo and mandolin player Harmony Griffin, paino, accordion and fife player Shawn Huestis, bassist Brendan O’Connor, and drummer Jimmy Royce, create a cozy yet upbeat vibe. Other highlights include “These Beds” which features guest vocals from Katie Clark of local band Rearview Ramblers. Another notable guest is Ruth Westlund, the grandmother og Ben Westlund and Harmy Griffin, who sings lead on “The Old Apple Tree.” On Not Far From The Tree, the self-described hillbillies deliver radio-ready songs that are intimate enough to move listeners on a personal level. The album drops on April 12 via iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Amazon, Xbox Music, iheartradio, and other digital platforms.