Dualtone

After two independent releases, Somewhere Beneath These Southern Skies marks the major-label debut for Knoxville, Tenn.-based six-piece The Dirty Guv’nahs. Joyous and soulful, rollicking Southern rock follows – at times recalling gospel and country, and at other times sounding a bit like ‘90s alt-rockers the Spin Doctors and The Black Crowes. The band packs a lot of
energy into these 14 songs, starting off strong and emotive with “Can You Feel It,” which is a clear standout with a powerful rhythm section and lead vocals from lead singer James Trimble. The musicianship is impressive throughout, especially the guitar-playing, bluesy horns and jangly keys on songs like “Good Luck Charm,” “Honey You” and “One Dance Left.” Carefully crafted lyrics are a strength of this album too, as “Temptation,” “Live Forever,” "3000 Miles and “Dear Alice” evoke search and doubt in addition to reflection, hope, love and yearning – it runs the gamut, providing feel-good music that also speaks to the struggles and hopes of everyman.