Root Down in the Shadow

Man, what can you say about Caroline Rose ? She rocks. Really, Caroline Rose and band rock.  There's no banjo/mandolin/violin to be considered folk, too much pedal steel to be punk, somewhere in between rockabilly and old school country, the gritty Vermont rocker doesn't seem to care where she fits.  When describing the tip jar at the merch booth to the crowd, she said "if you don't like us, give us some money so we can go get real jobs."  But seeing as her bandmates were all wearing Caroline's new "FUCK FEAR" t-shirts, I doubt she cares whether if the crowd approves too much.  Fortunately, while opening for Pokey LaFarge on this tour, she's found a lot of new fans.  World Cafe Live - Philadelphia was the 2nd night of tour, criss-crossing the east coast for Pokey and his "nice fans." The band impressed with their singles, jumping right into twanger "Blood On Your Bootheels" and steel heavy "Tightrope Walker....

Pokey LaFarge & the South City Three opened for Southern Culture on Skids Sunday, October 16th @ World Cafe Live.   Heading into the show, I had been riding a Pokey high, as I had them ranked as the album of the year (Middle of Everywhere Album Review) and the concert of the year.   I didn't know what to expect with an opening slot show, but I felt better once they started and announced it was the St. Louis quartet's first time performing Philadelphia.  Pokey was in a good mood starting off, teasing the crowd with a sly apology about the baseball playoffs (St. Louis knocking out Philadelphia).  Pokey explained his love of the style of music, appreciation for those who paved the ways for him, and tales of his songs.  For example, 'Coffee Pot Blues' he claims is about a "friend" left to co-habitate with an ex, sleeping on the couch, but sharing the coffee pot. Pokey & Co. have an unabashed love for the old time music and the South City Thre...