Sometimes a group begins as a band then evolves into one or two key
members accompanied by a shifting cast of players. Deer Tick came into
being the opposite way — in 2007, guitarist, singer, and
songwriter John McCauley released War Elephant under the Deer
Tick banner playing all instruments himself. For the follow-up Born
On Flag Day, McCauley recruited three fellows and got himself a
real band — and we, the audience, are the better for it. Their
specialty is roots-rock, with plenty of country music and folk-rock
overtones — but while many of their peers play with proficient
assurance, the Tick approach it from a raw, irreverent garage band
perspective. The opener “Easy” is a keeper — McCauley’s voice
crackles out of the speakers like a stray cat yowling for a mate, then
the chorus kicks in, a jangling grabber of a minor-key melody. The
driving, droll “Straight Into a Storm” careens like a gem by Chuck
Berry or Freddy Cannon. Some songs have a Dylan-esque approach but the
emotive edge of McCauley’s vocals is commanding enough to overcome any
comparisons. His lyrics juggle angst, hope, and humor and his melodies
get their hooks into you posthaste. If you enjoy roots-rock but wish
its makers were a little less earnest or “professional,” the rollicking
Born is an admirable alternative. (Partisan)
Deer Tick
Born On Flag Day
