Guitar/banjo duo Dirthog Newton’s sophomore album, Jonas Evans was released on October 2, bringing nothing short of a breath of fresh folk air.
Jonas Evans is the duo’s (Louie Laffend and Jacob Bergacs) second album this year after February’s Up On Pinewood Mountain. This new album offers a selection of easy-listening tracks that share timeless fictional community stories.
Dirthog Newton’s ability to harness the power of classic folk makes them stand out in today’s current music landscape. Each song discusses a different facet of a fictional community, from notorious robber and album namesake “Jonas Evans,” to “Old Ford John’s” broken down wheels, to a serenade for “Jerpaline.”
Each lyric is simple, yet a little goofy, and overall soothing. Reminiscent of a time past, while also being relevant to a small town today. “Jonas Evans” is the anthem of an autumn drive down a mountain in an old pickup truck.
Track Four, “Blue Ridge Mountain Blues,” features guest vocalist Jon Michael Barlow, who brings an earthy tone. The song is sweet and nostalgic, the lyrics noting the connection of a young boy and his parents as he explores the land around their cabin.
“People of the Old Times,” evokes a Bob Dylan-esque ballad with his token exclamatory vocal storytelling. Bergacs picks up speed on his acoustic guitar to match Laffend’s snappy lyrics discussing common sayings about life in past generations.
Jonas Evans is available now for listening on all major streaming platforms. Check out Dirthog Newton on Instagram and Facebook for updates and information on upcoming performances.
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