Place yourself on a long railroad, in a steam train, travelling with the wind, against the grain, through the blue grasses, from Virginia to Oregon through Kentucky.
Let’s say there’s a twinge of Americana in the Dark Actors’ business. But if the stage has been the steady platform for a constant and interchangeable cast – then Dark Actors are the shadows which linger and remain.
For years these majestic men have been creating and producing music in array of guises, becoming recognised by the outfits they have worn side by side amidst others. Now the skin-tight partnerships and the solo flyers have united – apparently able to talk in the same tongue and to take to their stage in a concordant collection of floral shirts, tweed jackets and neckerchiefs.
Singer Andy Beglin’s name is tagged most notably to DBMA (Death By Misadventure) and to Reubens Cane – which also included Dark Actors‘ bassist Rich Heneghan and drummer Nick Jones. Guitarists Dave Needle and Chris Dickson have been a long-term writing duo, having previously played together in the Rogue States.
Now that the associates have finally collaborated, there must have been a case of knowing where each of their own strengths lie, and in which direction they would like to push the music forward. To their further credit Chris also records and produces the music, with tracks ‘Whistles Calling’ and ‘Phantom of the South’ currently awaiting a listen on Soundcloud.
The music itself is a rich tapestry of cordial components, and bears a nostalgic flare with plenty of harmonies. It would do very well to be played out of the stereo of a Chevrolet Caprice Convertible – preferably down the open road of states which are indeed; rogue. Neil Young casts a hand of grace suggesting a guiding reference amidst Eric Clapton, Fleetwood Mac, and Creedence Clearwater Revival; driving these minstrels as path-finders in their field.
The railroad may be rickety, the steam train rocky, the wind knocking seven bells out of the carriages, and the grains like razor blades to the cheeks; but somehow you get the sense there’s light a the end of the tunnel. The Dark Actors play vibrantly to invigorate, and refrain from dropping so easily down to throwaway. They’re always listening for the changes and play with the sense of finesse that carries you along the journey too.
Sandwich The Coral’s ‘Put The Sun Back‘ with The Shadows‘ ‘Riders In The Sky‘ to get a taste of Dark Actors – but remember that these guys are somewhat meatier and there’s way more to chew…
