The Appalachian region of Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia and Tennessee  has a rich tradition of country music. However, it does seem like a tidal wave of talent has emerged from the region over the last seven or eight years. 49 Winchester hails from Russell County, VA (minutes from the birthplace of country music, Bristol, TN) with a sound they brand as “Appalachian Soul.” An eclectic mix of country, blues, soul, and rock ‘n roll that blends them together effortlessly with a five piece band (Isaac Gibson - Vocals/Guitar, Bus Shelton - Guitar, Chase Chafin - Bass, Noah Patrick - Steel Guitar, Dillon Cridlin - Drums)

In February of this year, 49 released a live EP, Bigtone Sessions, that gave us a taste of what was to come with eventual album cuts. “Get Clean,” a thunderous and haunting song covering the pain and paranoia of addiction. “It’s a Shame,” a down and out drinkin’ song filled with honesty with a dash of lightheartedness mixed in. “Long Hard Life” allows you a  peek into the musings of a man just trying to make it in this crazy world while he spends a little time behind bars wondering who in the hell is going to take care of his family and crops. It’s a fun rocking song that, in a world where corporate radio doesn’t turn its nose at independent artists, could be a hit on country radio.

“Why Else Would I Call You?” is a slowed down honky tonk jam that takes the listener down an all too familiar path of a night filled with fun and drinking ending in your thumb scrolling to the one person you shouldn’t be calling - ahh, a tale as old as cell phones. There are sentimental jams for the lovers and the “what could’ve beens.” “Everlasting Lover” is the former and sings of having that someone that is there through all of the trials and tribulations of this long strange trip we’re on, with it’s mellow vibe and soulful vocals from Isaac. The softest song on the album is “The Road Home”: a laid back love letter about finally getting back to town after spending an overwhelming amount of time in the van bouncing from city to city. These guys live for playing but I imagine that feeling of familiarity and love only family can radiate is a welcome feeling from the constant anxieties of gigs and traveling. 

Longtime favorite and previous album cut “Hays, Kansas” finds its way into the track list once again and for good reason. This track is the first one to pop into my head when thinking of 49 Winchester. It’s soulful as hell  and has a chorus that I wouldn’t consider “sing-songy” but is nevertheless catchy and seeping with grit and emotion. 

I firmly believe that 49 Winchester is ready to catapult into the stratosphere of an already booming music scene. They bring so many different elements for any number of listeners to latch onto, along with a fire and passion that will grip you to your core. Appalachian Soul is alive and ready to explode and ground zero is in Russell County, VA.

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