“Long Skinny Lanky Sarah Jane”: Section House Breathes New Fire into Bluegrass with Unconventional Charm
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
In a musical landscape often dominated by familiar themes of romantic love and longing, the bluegrass powerhouse Section House carves a distinctive path with their latest offering, “Long Skinny Lanky Sarah Jane.” Far from the typical sentimental ballad, this track, presented by a band brimming with exceptional talent, delivers a refreshing and engaging narrative that is as unique as its titular character.
Section House is not just another bluegrass ensemble; it’s a collective of virtuosos, each a respected name in the genre. Leading the charge on “Long Skinny Lanky Sarah Jane” is the compelling voice and intricate resophonic guitar work of Gaven Largent. His delivery imbues the song with a captivating blend of earnestness and playful intrigue. The razor-sharp mandolin artistry of Aaron Ramsey weaves intricate melodies that dance around the vocal line, while Cory Walker’s dynamic banjo playing injects bursts of energy and rhythmic drive. Bryan McDowell’s fiddle adds layers of soulful expression and nimble dexterity, his solos a masterclass in bluegrass improvisation. Anchoring the ensemble is Jake Stargel’s steady and tasteful guitar work, providing a solid foundation for the instrumental fireworks. Finally, Jeff Partin’s unwavering bass lines lay down a deep and resonant groove that ties the entire sonic tapestry together.
“Long Skinny Lanky Sarah Jane” immediately stands out for its narrative focus. Instead of dwelling on romantic affections, the song paints a vivid picture of an individual, Sarah Jane, through a series of descriptive observations. The lyrics, delivered with a storytelling flair, bring her to life with colorful details, hinting at a personality that is both intriguing and perhaps a little unconventional. This shift in thematic focus is a breath of fresh air in a genre often associated with more traditional love stories.
Musically, the track is a testament to Section House’s mastery of bluegrass instrumentation. The interplay between the resophonic guitar, mandolin, banjo, and fiddle is nothing short of spectacular. Each instrument shines in its own right, contributing to a rich and dynamic sonic texture. The solos are executed with precision and passion, showcasing the individual brilliance of the musicians while seamlessly serving the overall arrangement. The tempo is lively and engaging, propelling the narrative forward with an infectious energy that is sure to get toes tapping.
What makes “Long Skinny Lanky Sarah Jane” particularly compelling is its ability to be both deeply rooted in bluegrass tradition and strikingly original. The instrumental prowess and tight harmonies are hallmarks of the genre, yet the lyrical content and the overall feel of the song offer a fresh perspective. Section House manages to honor the rich history of bluegrass while simultaneously pushing its boundaries in subtle and engaging ways.
This track is more than just a collection of impressive instrumental performances; it’s a cohesive piece of storytelling brought to life by a band operating at the peak of their abilities. Gaven Largent’s vocal delivery is both sincere and engaging, drawing the listener into the world of Sarah Jane. The instrumental breaks are not mere showcases of virtuosity but rather integral parts of the narrative, adding depth and emotion to the story being told.
“Long Skinny Lanky Sarah Jane” is a welcome addition to the bluegrass landscape. It’s a reminder that the genre is capable of exploring a wide range of human experiences and narratives with the same skill and artistry that has always defined it. Section House, with their exceptional musicianship and their willingness to venture beyond the well-trodden paths of love songs, has delivered a track that is both captivating and memorable. This is bluegrass with a twist, a testament to the enduring power and versatility of the genre in the hands of true masters. For anyone seeking a bluegrass experience that is both familiar and refreshingly different, “Long Skinny Lanky Sarah Jane” is an absolute must-listen.