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Oakland-based duo Driftwood Pines, led by the accomplished multi-instrumentalist and songwriter IJ Smith, released their debut EP, ‘Crimson’, on July 1, 2024. Taking inspiration from the likes of The Eagles and Hermanos Gutierrez, and featuring the dynamic percussion of Tony Daquipa, this all-instrumental EP is now streamable on Bandcamp.
Smith, a master of the lap steel guitar, leans into the Americana and country folk traditions, crafting haunting melodies that define the EP. The lap steel guitar leads three out of the four tracks on ‘Crimson’, with ‘Truckstop Milkyway’ also showcasing Smith’s exquisite mandolin playing. This track, in particular, highlights the album’s unique twist, blending standard acoustic Americana with subtle, ambient synth textures that add an ethereal quality.
‘Crimson’ captures the essence of Folk/Americana while incorporating these ambient synths, creating a sound that evokes the imagery of nighttime desert wanderings and stargazing. The lack of vocals allows the music to take center stage, with the steel guitar providing a soulful, vocal-like presence.
