That is not to say that mastery of this nuanced style is easily attained. Yet many bands, including popular Portland act Roy Davis & The Dregs, do their best to muster up gold. And while the young group may not be genre giants, it has enough can-do gumption to keep the recently-released debut “Deadweight” afloat.
Perhaps the group’s largest assets are the pipes of lead singer Davis. The songwriter, last heard on his solo 2006 debut “Grey Town,” possesses a pitchy warble which is unique enough to engage the listener with every word. Davis’ loose vocals sound best on tracks such as the standout opener, “Please Go Home.” Recalling a slack track from The Band’s “Music From Big Pink,” this catchy, easygoing tune keeps things alive with a well-paced banjo line. The song also showcases Davis’ unique lyrics, even dropping a sly “X-Files” reference into the surprisingly dark verses.
The group’s ragtag spirit carries much of the album. “Till The Night Is Gone” is a poppy shuffle which boasts palatable lyrics and a vocal melody out of the John Mayer songbook. “Get What’s Coming” is a big, brassy jam which would not feel out of place coming from “A.M.”-era Wilco. As it is still a relatively green group, it isn’t surprising that Roy Davis & The Dregs wears influences on it sleeve, yet a willingness to embrace different styles is what keeps the operation fresh.
That said, “Deadweight” does not quite attain perfection. Davis’ voice is captivating, yet is best utilized in short blasts, combined with the thick instrumentation his band can offer. Unfortunately, a few ballads on the album crumble due to a heavy focus on the vocals. “Dear Prison Guard” is a serious misfire, a pretty song ruined by Davis’ staggeringly off-key performance. Other moments, such as the slow-paced title track, are weak for the same reason. Emotionally fragile vocals are great, but an absence of tunefulness makes for a bumpy ride.
Besides those few gaffes, one hopes that Davis will become comfortable with his own voice and can excel the band to near-perfection. This is an inspired effort, and will be a great starting point to get heads bopping at the group’s live shows.
Maine native and music master William Earl is currently living in Boston and enjoying tunes from all over New England.