This band of NYC buskers is proving that you can do anything you dream of doing. The original band got started in 2010, did some stuff together, then went their separate ways. Those separate was had some of them busking for money. Fast forward to now- They have released this excellent EP full of twangy country Americana that is sure to have your foot tapping.
The Good Morning Nags are Tim Hassler on fiddle/vocals, Ben Quinn on mandolin/guitar/harmonium/vocals, Titus Tompkins on percussion/mandolin/vocals, Britt Reagan on guitar/dulcimer/vocals, Mark Spitznagel on banjo/vocals, and Pete O’Neill on bass/vocals.
This EP has a full country sound reminiscent of the classic country days. It’s easy to picture this group of guys picking and grinning while they sing these songs, and with all of those string instruments, there’s a lot of picking going on.
“Blackberry Bush” is a song that really puts a focus on the talented musicians in this group, as an instrumental song. It keeps your attention with the changes throughout, and not one moment do you wonder when the lyrics will start. That’s not to say the songs with vocals aren’t just as great.
“Love Like No Other” has a great vocal track. It kind of makes you think of John Lennon if Lennon did country music. It’s a gentle and slow love song with some great backing music. The harmonizing on this song is delightful. You feel the connection of this band as they perform each of these songs, but especially on this one.
This EP is a tasty and twangy treat for anyone that loves some good old country tunes. There are seven songs for you to enjoy. There’s none of that crossover junk in the raw down-home music on this album. A+
