Washington DC-based duo Vandaveer have returned with their third LP, Dig Down Deep. The new album announces a more gutsy approach to the group’s amalgam of country and folk and acknowledges front man Mark Charles Heidinger’s Kentucky roots – ever apparent in the album’s title track Dig Down Deep.
Heidinger opens the song with airs of optimism when he sings “Dig down deep, don’t fold/For the faintest wind might blow,” setting the records tone accompanied just by his acoustic guitar.
The pitch perfect wails of Heidingers are a welcome contrast to his previously more reserved approach. These new bellowing vocals are softened by the graceful presence of the band’s secondary vocalist Rose Guerin’s complementary harmonious tones.
The track then thickens in texture to reveal the unmistakable orchestral make up of traditional folk and country music. Warm piano and handclaps unite with a gentle acoustic to create a joyous march that surrounds the songs lyrical subtext of hope.
Vandaveer have taken the country genre from its side street status and brought it into the palatable mainstream for the masses to enjoy.
Dig Down Deep will officially be released on 4th July, 2011 in the UK and greater Europe.
According to Adrian 