Eric Bachmann and Jon Rauhouse, “Eric Bachmann & Jon Rauhouse”
Available: Now, via Merge Records on limited edition run of 1,000 vinyl LPs. One can also order the vinyl directly from either Bachmann’s or Rauhouse’s website. Compact discs are in the works and, as always, check at your local independent record store for availability as well.
Eric Bachmann and Jon Rauhouse are exceptionally busy men. As of this review, both are wrapping up dates as touring (permanent?) members for Neko Case. These two spent the past tour opening shows for Case, playing tracks from this stellar collaboration record, then holding multi-instrumentalist roles as part of her headlining live show.
Bachmann is perhaps best known as the principal songwriter, vocalist and guitar player for seminal ’90s indie rock outfit Archers of Loaf. More recently, many might know his vast catalog of recordings under the Crooked Fingers moniker. Jon Rauhouse is a hard-working Americana journeymen, releasing records under various combinations of his name in addition to being a member of Dollar Store, Grievous Angels and Neko’s band. Rauhouse is, seemingly, the go-to when you want one of the most revered pedal steel or steel guitar players available. He has appeared on many of your favorite Americana and alt-country records, for artists such as the Old 97’s, the Waco Brothers, Calexico, John Langford, Giant Sand and many, many others.
“Eric Bachmann & Jon Rauhouse” is a wonderfully warm album of instrumental Americana. There are a variety of sonic textures on the record, all held seamlessly together by the skilled duo’s interplay. Acoustic guitar and pedal steel are the most prominent instruments on the record, both piano and violin and are featured as well, adding depth and dynamics. Hopefully, this the first of many future collaborations between the two.
Recommended for fans of John Fahey, Calexico, William Tyler, Steve Gunn or any of the aforementioned artists.
Jon E. Lynch[email protected]
