Various Artists – Homestead Volume Five – Album Review

The endless fountain of quality musical talent Bongo Boy Records is at it again. This month, they’ve released another stunner of a compilation album – Homestead Volume Five. This two-disc special contains twenty tracks of the finest Americana music you can find in the indie music scene. It’s an honest, heartfelt, and authentic collection of songs that highlights what Bongo Boy and their artists always seem to do best in any genre – and that’s bringing great music together.

Homestead Volume Five opens with a familiar sound – we’re no strangers to the soulful work of artist E.G. Holmes, and his twangy, summery Whiskey Joe’s is the perfect opener to this compilation. We’re treated to more material by some of our favorite recent artists by way of Clark Ford’s In Your Eyes (you can read our entire review of this charming single here), as well as another taste of Todd Barrow’s modern country capabilities in Point of No Return (check out our review of his track Gonna Drive). We also hear from rocker Frank Trousdell with Then You Came True, and we revisit our favorite Junior Burke track Coming Home from Shiloh.

If you’re an avid reader of The Ark, all these names might seem very familiar, but fear not – there’s a great spread of artists on this compilation that are brand new to our ears (and likely yours, too). Take for example the modern, indie-folk-rock self-titled track by Harp and Plow – its swampy, bluesy lilt and gritty vocals showcase a heavier side of the Americana genre. Ma Belle Cherie by Blind Lemon Pledge is where swanky, French lyrics meet down-home classic country sounds. It’s a fun blend of high-class Louisiana and a boot-stomping good time. We also love the classic/acoustic rock hybrid Yeah, That’s Me by Point Taken, the funky fusion track What The Cat Dragged In by Norman Collins & The Tumblers, and the authentic, classic, Waylon & Willie vibes from Workin Joe Whiskey by Ray Materick.

Strong Roots of This Tree by John Edwin & The Banjodasha Hillbillies is a standout on this collection. Employing a great mix of bluegrass banjo and familiar modern folk melodies makes it feel like this group has kept their finger on the pulse of the current Americana scene trends. With some similarities to Lost Dog Street Band but a lighter and brighter sound of their own, this is a particularly excellent underground folk find on this compilation.

Homestead Volume 5 is everything one could ask for in a collection of indie-folk and Americana music. This project is a treasure trove – a collection of true acoustic gems from artists writing and performing at extraordinarily high levels. For lovers of the undiscovered, for those who appreciate meaningful lyrics, a front-and-center acoustic guitar, a gritty lead vocal, and a long dirt road – the latest Bongo Boy Records compilation album was practically tailor-made for you.

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BELOW: Listen to Homestead Volume Five and connect with their website and social media platforms. Please support Bongo Boy Records by visiting them online, and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing their music! And, as always, thank you for supporting real music!