The Coal Men (from the album Everett

The Coal Men (from the album Everett

The Coal Men (from the album Everett available on Vaskaleedez Records) (by Lee Zimmerman)
 
With a collective career that will mark 25 years this coming August, it’s little surprise that The Coal Men — Dave Coleman (guitar and vocals), Dave Ray (drums and backing vocals), and Paul Silken (bass) — come across as so assured and cohesive straight from the get-go. The trio’s new album, Everett, finds the band solidly in sync, while also benefiting from occasional keyboard contributions from Jen Gunderman of The Jayhawks, piano tuner Lane Kiefling, and Coleman himself, all playing — what else? — an Everett piano purchased from Nashville’s Downtown Presbyterian Church and used to excellent effect here. 
 
Nevertheless, the band’s demonstrative designs ensure only minimal extra additives are needed. Each of these songs rock emphatically and intently. It further exemplifies the steadfast drive and determination that Coleman’s imbued in his signature sound, one of the reason’s he’s one of Nashville’s most sought- after album producers. 
 
So too, Everett starts with a sizzle, courtesy of the robust refrains that echo through “Black Cat”, “Radio Bell”, “Rather Be Right”, and “Love This Town”, all of which ring with a seemingly effortless drive and determination. Only “Heart Exposed”, which falls midway through the set, slows the momentum, but even then, there’s a solid, stoic sensibility that ensures a certain intensity remains intact. The frenzied “Come Back Joe” and the solid stomp of “I Hear Trains” restore the urgent intent that pervades the album overall, but it takes “Johnny Sins” to provide an added spark in the form of a rowdy and raucous attitude. It adds an almost Punk-like fervor while also elevating the energy and exuberance.
 
That’s not to say the band veers from its concerted core. “Silver Tails” comes across in decidedly determined fashion while “Accidental Memory” and “Hammer Like Bill” maintain the focus that provides that added edge.
 
Taken in tandem, Everett is another bold stroke, a solid set of resilient Rockers that reflect The Coal Men’s carefully concerted approach. These men remain in solid standing. (by Lee Zimmerman)
 
Listen and buy the music of The Coal Men from AMAZON
 
For more info, check out The Coal Men website