DERF MOSH: Americana the Beautiful

By Matt Mitchell, DERF Music Columnist

Ah summertime, 4th of July, Reds baseball, Bengals training camp and another Lindsey Lohan arrest. This is when this country of ours is truly at its finest. So why not show your patriotism in the most musical of ways? No I am not speaking of giant Bald Eagle stickers on that big ol' truck or Sean Hannity Freedom Concerts. If there is one genre of music that best exemplifies the good ol' U.S. of A its "Americana." And fortunately for you, there are many talented bands out there, both new and old to enjoy. Now all you need for that Champagne Jam of yours on the Ohio River is some Old Milwaukee and Hot Dogs.

Some say that Americana is a melting pot of genres which includes the likes of bluegrass, country, gospel, folk, rock, and blues. One thing that makes Americana so unique is that unlike many other varieties of music, no matter the geographical location, the sound is still consistent. So without further delay, here are a few musicians that will help you through the dog days of summer.

With any successful type of music, there are always pioneers. The Band is widely considered to be the group that really set the standard for Americana. However, I do find this a little odd, since they are Canadian, just like another Americana pioneer Neil Young. Regardless of origin, their sound defined what has become one of the few categories of music that can be considered truly American in origin. Of course when discussing Americana one name truly embodies not only the music, but the lifestyle. Bob Dylan considered by many to be one of the greatest American musicians to ever live is very deep in Americana's roots. If patchouli, free love, and not showering are your thing, you'll be happy to know that The Grateful Dead and their loyal fans were instrumental to the spread of Americana.

Thankfully for those of us who enjoy Americana and showering, many of today's bands have embraced this one of a kind sound. One of my personal favorites, Chicago based Wilco, has been rocking for years with the melting pot sound. Predicted by yours truly to really break out this year is Blitzen Trapper. These Oregonians really know how to put on a show the audience will never forget. Of course since Americana is filled with long impromptu jams many times solo acoustic acts can flourish. Some of the more popular modern Americana solo artists include Rhett Miller, and Emmylou Harris.

So next time you think of buying that generic patriotic bumper sticker that was made in another country think twice. Do something that is truly American and give these guys a listen. Then you will be doing something truly American, no matter what Bill O'Reilly tells you.