Heathen Apostles Beginning Work on ‘Heavy Country’ Bloodgrass Vol. III
The Heathen Apostles are beginning work on Bloodgrass Vol. III, the third volume in their series of their take on gothic bluegrass, heavy country and dark roots. The band hopes to have the project completed before their September 2020 European tour, but will release a single from it if the EP is not completed. The sessions are being recorded both under quarantine and through remote recordings, and will be released on Ratchet Blade Records. Both Bloodgrass Vol. I (released in 2017) and Bloodgrass Vol. II (released in 2018) EPs were later combined for the full length Bloodgrass Vol. I & II, released in 2019 on LP and CD.
James G. Carlson wrote of Bloodgrass Vol. I & II in No Depression:
“Bloodgrass Vol. II & II opens with the Apostles’ dark, creeping rendition of Gershwin and Heyward’s classic “Summertime.” “Death Came a Ridin’,” a Heathen Apostles original, is a macabre piece dedicated to the reaper, with Louth employing a storytelling style of lyrical conveyance. “Dark Days” somehow manages to successfully marry gloomy folk with gypsy jazz, and features some of Louth’s best vocal work on the album. “Lady in Gold” is an energetic gothic country offering, while “Deadly Nightshade” is an ominous picker with a simple but nicely punctuating beat. “Paint the Stars,” an easy standout on this album, kicks off with lively violin, guitar strumming, and steady beat, and then incorporates a powerful vocal performance by Louth. Other covers include heavy country versions of “You’ll Never Leave Harlan Alive” (Darrell Scott), “Ramblin’ Man” (Hank Williams), and “Shady Grove” (traditional). “D.O.A.” has a roots rock feel to it, while the closer, “Fever Jane,” another easy standout, is a moody picker with darkly beautiful vocals.”
Check back for more details on this EP release.
