Natural art

Lord Ransom and his Ranch Knaves is doing something that most bands that come through Long Beach do not do anymore, play Country music. What sets this band aside from the rest that play Country in this town is that this band is more than a Country music tribute band. Sure they have some covers of the Legends of Country but they also play originals that showcase the triumphs and sadness the 8 members have had over their years as musicians. With members from Saccharine Trust, Crawlspace, The Lazy Cowgirls, The Exxtras and 3 members of the Jack Brewer Band this band has some history behind it. Eddie Flowers (lead vocals); Jack Brewer (guitar), Phil Van Duyne (lead guitar), Ed Huerta (drums), Bob Fitzer (bass), Ken Fitzer (electric mandolin), Dixie Rebelle (vocals) and Joey Slab (poet) do their best to keep Country music alive in Long Beach. According to their facebook their influences are Ernest Lord Ransom, Hank Williams, Merle Haggard, Johnny Cash, Michael Nesmith, Waylon & Willie, Dean Martin, Fred Neil, the Louvin Brothers, Bob Wills, etc.

On February 24th they took the stage at diPiazza’s with intrigue and even higher expectations. The buzz about Lord Ransom amongst the music community has been growing setting the tone for what would hopefully be a triumphant night for the band. Unfortunately the concept behind Lord Ransom is better than the actual performance, at least on this night. Eddie Flowers vocals were flat and had limited range most of the night as his performance was out shined by new comer Dixie Rebelle. The youthful delivery in Dixie’s voice reminded you of June Carter while Eddie struggled to keep the attention of the crowd. His delivery and style was like watching Cash at the end of his life but without the style, notoriety or presence. On this night it seemed that the years had gotten the best of Eddie as he looked tired, short of breath and uncommanding. Also distracting was having 2 guitars and an electric mandolin with the bass and drums. This concept is good but too overpowering with 2 guitars. Joey Slab was probably the biggest disappointment of the night though as his segment was monotone and too dry to add anything special to Lord Ransom. His part could be great if he had better delivery and a voice that made you take notice but as it is its more of a nuisance to a good concept than a compliment. Ed Huerta and Bob Fitzer kept the groove moving and both musicians are very good on their instruments. The highlights on this night were Ken Fitzer on electric mandolin which brought a very unique sound to the band and Dixie’s vocals which did not get much of a chance to shine.

Even with some lack luster performances the concept Lord Ransom is trying to convey is worth seeing again,