Navigating the Rhythms of Life: Amanda Shaw and Joe Gelini’s “Pothole Mouth” Paves a Bold New Path for Louisiana Sound
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Louisiana’s musical tapestry is renowned for its vibrant, interconnected threads, but every so often, an artist or a collaboration comes along that weaves something entirely novel, pushing the boundaries while honoring the rich heritage. Such is the case with “Pothole Mouth,” the electrifying new single from fiddle virtuoso Amanda Shaw and Joe Gelini, the rhythmic powerhouse behind Grammy-nominated New Orleans funk band Cha Wa. Far from a mere genre exercise, “Pothole Mouth” is a joyous, high-octane anthem that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Louisiana – its resilience, its humor, and its undeniable capacity for making even the most frustrating circumstances feel like an invitation to dance.
At first listen, “Pothole Mouth” hits you with an immediate, infectious energy. It’s a masterful blend of seemingly disparate elements that, in the hands of Shaw and Gelini, coalesce into a seamless and exhilarating experience. Mardi Gras Indian chants lay down a primal, spiritual groove, intertwined with the irresistible swing of New Orleans second-line rhythms. Then, almost unexpectedly, a Cajun two-step emerges, a nod to the dancehall traditions that are integral to Shaw’s musical DNA. And finally, a touch of Nashville’s signature polish, courtesy of producer Kent Wells (known for his work with Dolly Parton), adds a layer of country storytelling finesse with the inclusion of pedal steel and the contributions of top-tier session musicians. The result is a sonic journey that mirrors the unpredictable yet captivating landscape of Louisiana itself – a dynamic fusion that somehow feels both deeply rooted and refreshingly innovative.
Both Amanda Shaw and Joe Gelini are artists deeply committed to sharing the vibrant culture of Louisiana with the world, and “Pothole Mouth” serves as a powerful testament to that mission. Shaw, a New Orleans native who has been wielding a fiddle since childhood, has always embodied a fascinating blend of musical influences. Her early years were steeped in the communal joy of Cajun fais do-dos, while simultaneously absorbing the eclectic sounds of New Orleans jazz, blues, funk, and rock ‘n’ roll. This diverse upbringing shaped a sound that, while undeniably influenced by Cajun traditions, remains uniquely her own. Her journey has taken her from a record deal with Rounder Records at the tender age of 15 to appearances on national stages like Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve, the Today Show’s Roker-thon, and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade. A recipient of the Big Easy Award for Best Female Entertainer and a Louisiana Music Hall of Famer, Shaw has consistently proven her ability to captivate audiences and champion Louisiana’s musical heritage.
Gelini, with his deep understanding of New Orleans’ percussive heart, brings the essential rhythmic pulse that anchors the track. His experience with Cha Wa, a band celebrated for its powerful fusion of funk, R&B, and Mardi Gras Indian traditions, is evident in the track’s insistent, body-moving groove. The synergy between Shaw’s soaring fiddle and vocals and Gelini’s masterful drumming creates a conversation that is both playful and profound.
The song’s inspiration is, fittingly, rooted in a distinctly Louisiana experience. As Shaw recounts, the genesis of “Pothole Mouth” came from a particularly brutal encounter with a pothole on Franklin Avenue in New Orleans – a relatable frustration for anyone who has navigated the city’s notoriously uneven streets. “Everyone in New Orleans knows the struggle of navigating some of the worst potholes in America—and let’s be real, everyone in America knows what it’s like dealing with a real ‘Pothole Mouth’!” Shaw explains. This universally understood, yet distinctly local, struggle provides a humorous and grounding narrative for the song. “It was an absolute dream to work with Joe to bring together different elements of New Orleans’ cultural landscape in a way that feels both authentic and fun,” she adds.
Gelini echoes the sentiment of a truly collaborative and enjoyable process: “Amanda and I had an absolute blast writing and recording this song together. It’s a fantastic illustration of how musicians from diverse styles and genres can collaborate and create something entirely novel in the vibrant landscape of Louisiana music.” This spirit of collaboration is precisely what makes “Pothole Mouth” so compelling. It’s not just a blending of sounds, but a meeting of minds and musical traditions that truly respect and elevate one another.
The Nashville influence, particularly with Kent Wells at the helm, adds a surprising yet welcome dimension. The two-step bridge, a common feature in country music, feels perfectly at home nestled between the New Orleans rhythms and Cajun fiddle, creating a seamless transition that defies genre conventions. The pedal steel, typically associated with country ballads, here adds a rich, almost mournful yet resilient, texture that underscores the song’s underlying message of embracing life’s imperfections with a grin.
“These musical elements have never really lived together in one track before,” Shaw points out, highlighting the groundbreaking nature of the song. “That’s what makes Louisiana music so special—it’s about bringing people together, having a good time, and sharing something real. I can’t wait for everyone to hear it!” Indeed, “Pothole Mouth” is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a sonic embodiment of Louisiana’s welcoming spirit, its ability to find joy in the everyday, and its boundless capacity for musical innovation. It invites listeners to embrace the bumps in the road, quite literally, with a sense of humor and a fervent desire to dance through life’s challenges. This collaboration is a testament to the fact that when artists truly listen to each other and their shared cultural landscape, the results can be truly electrifying. “Pothole Mouth” is a must-listen for anyone seeking a vibrant, authentic, and utterly joyful musical experience.