Up-and-coming band The Steel Woods debut their first studio album, Straw in the Wind, on May 19.
The Steel Woods introduced their music to the world with a four-song self-titled EP, exposing the band’s musical talent as well as their diverse sound. In songs like “Better in the Fall,” they explore the rock genre with a grungy guitar lick opening and catchy chorus, while the old-country ballad “Axe,” the only song on the EP written by the band, delves into their natural songwriting talents with an added bluesy undertone.
Now the Nashville-based band is on the brink of releasing their highly anticipated studio album, Straw in the Wind, and really showcasing their musical aptitudes.
Each track is an ode to traditional Southern music and the versatility of it. The album opener, “Axe,” originally off the EP, draws you in with old-country twang. The rest of the track list takes you on a journey of different genres and storytelling. From traditional country in love songs like “I’m Gonna Love You” and “If We Never Go” to country rock ballad (complete with classical string quartet) on “The Secret,” the album explores dark scenarios in its lyrics while relying on its instruments to retain an upbeat element.
In a band bio, Jason “Rowdy” Cope explains the album’s tone: “We’re into this to heal people’s hearts. If you’re given a talent that can shake plates in the earth, that can really change the world, you have a responsibility to use that for good. Music is the most powerful, emotion-driven art form in the universe because it transcends language. It’s like a sharp blade. It can be used to kill, or in the hands of a surgeon, to heal someone.”
The premiere album will be available on May 19, but, in the meantime, you can listen to their EP in this playlist. Find out more about the band and concert plans on their website.
