The Womacks - The Blue Room

The Womacks

The Blue Room
self-released; 2013

4.0 out of 5

By Matt Jensen

The Womacks is truly a family band. The band members were all raised within 10 miles of each other and Noah & Haley Heyman are brother and sister. Another member of the band Tony Schaffer is married Haley Heyman. Furthermore Noah Heyman started dating the drummer’s sister. Suffice it to say that there are other things that bring them together besides music. What may be most interesting is that they all live together in Norfolk, Ohio. While you might think to yourself I don't remember a band being this close since The Mamas & the Papas. You may also wonder do they have any talent? I am happy to report to you that they do with a resounding yes. 

They create Americana folk that sounds like a slice of the hills and back roads that are spread throughout the rural landscape. I can’t help but imagine the country when I listen to this music; the smell of apple pie on a windowsill, the sight of a dog barking in the backyard or your mother hanging out laundry. They recently released an album entitled The Blue Room, which encapsulates this imagery over 10 songs.

If you want to start your day with a smile I wouldn't suggest skipping over the first song “Goodbye Birdie.” It is an acoustic song with beautiful string work as well as vocal harmonies. It’s a song that is hard not to like and is a bit reminiscent of “Ripple” by the Grateful Dead, which gives you a similar type of feeling. “Far More” features Haley Heyman on lead vocals and fares very well. Her voice is conducive to the music and fits the next song just as well, which is a jazz-inspired number called “Blue.” 

“Another Shore” doesn't fare quite as well and feels more like elevator music than some of their previous tunes. They quickly get back on track however with the fun and festive “A Silver Line of Peace,” which has a great lead guitar line as well as some of the best percussive elements on the album. Another highlight is “Sun Shine Down My Way,” which contains more great string work and almost gospel-like vocal work.

The Womacks have delivered a warm album that feels like sunshine in the morning. I recommend that if you want to brighten up your day that you take a listen.

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