“Numb” by Denver, Colorado based blues rock act Shady Oaks is certainly fitting for their band name. The track begins with a dark, melancholy, folky guitar riff that immediately reminds you of Colter Wall; these starting notes would feel at home in a horror game or movie set on a desolate, apocalyptic farm or cabin amongst darkened oak trees.
The song features a duet of both male and female vocals, lending depth to a narrative surrounding a conflict between two aching people.
Male vocalist Ty Gallaway enters first, taking the song on a rockier-sounding journey than the first few notes might imply first; he is also the bands’ lead guitarist, and his entry is fittingly matched with heavy guitars. Loren Dorland joins shortly afterward, telling the other perspective of the story; her voice possesses a rocky twang that sounds eerily similar to that of Miranda Lambert.
The back and forth tells the tale of their relationship; the woman is alone, the man is numb. Though the two people are in a relationship together, they struggle to find comfort in one another, though the man seems keener to salvage the relationship. The song ends with a wailing, intricate guitar breakdown to convey the emotion and frustration of the song.
The band cites The Black Keys, who create a similarly dark-feeling world in between their catchy riffs and bluesy sound. “Numb” has a dark, melancholy feel that immediately draws you in with the suspense.
We thoroughly enjoyed this release from Shady Oaks, and we look forward to upcoming releases from the group!
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