Virginia seems to have its share of diamonds in the rough these days.
Enter Carbon Leaf, another Richmond band with the proper dose of Celtic folk rock for anyone with a taste of indie in their mouths. This six-album strong quintet has arrangements for any flavor, from those with dancing shoes to those with the walking blues. I can’t possibly say enough about them, and to have seen them live once was a real joy for me.
Much to my chagrin, after only one moderate hit single, corporate America shrugged them off as a mere ember in the glowing flame of celebrity. All of their albums (minus Indian Summer) were indie releases – including one live recording. They’ve toured most, if not all of the Eastern Seaboard. They’ve only had one line-up change (Scott Milstead, drums). They’ve even had a song from their most recent release grace the soundtrack of a Civil War documentary.
I know much of that is rather trivial for the average listener, but if one considers how often line-ups change for established bands, or how hard it seems to get motivation for multiple album releases as an indie band, they have proven they will not go quietly into the night. My largest attraction to Carbon Leaf was a live show in Raleigh, North Carolina only two years ago.
The sunburnt crowd celebrated this unknown presence, danced the night away, and one couple was even given a requested song play after what appeared to be an arranged marriage proposal. They warmly welcome in any new fan, and never forget to deliver a great show. Multiple instruments, great feedback, and getting signed has kept their train rolling. I highly recommend Carbon Leaf to any music fan – no matter what flavor they dig.
Carbon Leaf 2008 Tour Dates:
06/28 – Raleigh, NC @ Bud Light Downtown Live
07/17 – Virginia Beach, VA @ Neptune’s Park
07/18 – Baltimore, MD @ Power Plant Live
07/19 – Chicago, IL @ Sheffield Garden Walk
09/19 – Altamont, NY @ Irish 2000 Music & Arts Festival