Taken from his album of songs that explore the deeper realities of the opening up of the American West, familiar tales told from a different perspective and stories with more realistic slants, Pioneers and Fragrant Flowers, “Dusty Danny” sees him cast a critical eye over one of its most popular tropes.
His titular (anti?) hero is someone we all recognize from the movies: the gunslinging card-sharp, the man in black outlaw, the barroom brawler, and first to the draw. But beneath this exterior bravado, do more conflicted emotions flow? Like many of the conversations we are having about masculinity and the male role model in society today, is this just someone living a lie?
With a video that juxtaposes his simple performance with familiar, clichéd Western movie scenes, he combines his folkier acoustic sound with more driven country-rock grooves, creating a song that slowly builds in intensity and intent, with poignancy and purpose.
As a solo single, it is a brilliant indication of the balance and blend of simple sonics and sophisticated playing that he is known for. As a piece from a larger album, in this case, one that prompts you to think more deeply and differently about American history, it is a tantalizing part of a rewarding and often challenging jigsaw puzzle.
Website
Bandcamp
Twitter
Instagram
Spotify
