Religion and popular music can be strange bedfellows. From the sublime to the ridiculous, from the worthy to a cheap attempt to cash in, we have witnessed it all. Religion is a huge part of this fine fourteen-track outing by Minneapolis songwriter Kevin Bowe. Mr. Bowe has received more attention as a songwriter for others than he has as a musician in his own right, but this CD has more than enough potential to prove he can carry a song just as well as he can write one.
Previously he has written for the likes of Kenny Wayne Shepard (he wrote 'Riverside' featured on Shepard's debut 'Ledbetter Heights') and Jonny Lang, having written tracks for both 'Lie to Me' and 'Wander this World', including the single 'Breakin' Me'. A pretty impressive resume by any standards. Lang repays a portion of the debut by guest staring on this album.
This is an album that wallows happily in the fact it is non-commercial and yet easy to listen to at the same time. This is music driven by the bands own intentions, totally ignoring any thoughts of what will sell, or what is cool. The music is a mixture of many similar styles, each quintessentially American. Blues, Roots, Folk and Rock to name but four. It's all played with restraint, building the music and vocals into interesting shapes rather than using them to crash through buildings. You get the sense that in the pecking order of the Okemah Prophets Mr. Bowe's voice is top of the pack, and is deferred to by the rest of the instruments.
That is not a bad thing, because it is the melodies and lyrics that really make this album special. Of course to many that will make this album appear bland, and lacking in necessary contrast. A fair point, but contrast is not what this album is about, this is a meandering journey, an album that apes a classic old movie or book, devoid of gory deaths, sex or car chases it instead offers story development and a feel good factor. In other words this is an album that will appeal more to those who rate 'Casablanca' as the best movie ever made, than those who prefer 'Pulp Fiction'.
From the opening notes of the excellent 'Sault Ste. Marie' with it's mournfully harmonica laid over uplifting guitar we are escorted through an hour of stories, tales and excellent song crafting. The five members of the band are joined by as many guest musicians to develop a thick, rich, if understated sound. Another huge plus is the total absence of filler on this release. Each track is worthy of its place, and worthy of existence as a song. It is rare to find an album that is so consistent in the quality of the material presented.
It really is a strong album, and again I return to the book comparison, it really will draw you in in that way, without necessarily ever getting you jumping out of your seat or screaming for joy. I would guess that this is an album that would give more satisfaction to a mature person, one who has lived life a little, rather than the thrill seekers of youth.
It is hard to pick out tracks for consideration, because as an album it flows so seamlessly. I have a particular fondness for the likes of 'Leaving to Stay', the divine 'Lonesome Angel', 'Little Miss Rain' and 'Goodbye Annabella'. Each excellent examples of understated songwriting at its best. I wouldn't be surprised if several of the tracks from this album end up being covered by other artists, because there are very few people out there who can fashion songs as well as Kevin Bowe.
Prophets is an apt choice of name for this band, not just because of the strong religious themes and lyrics running through this CD but also because they are helping preach, and spread the word, of good old fashioned songwriting. An excellent album by an excellent band.

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