Kevin Bronson on July 21st, 2010

0

Foo Fighters lead guitarist Chris Shiflett has traded in his Gibson grit for Telecaster twang with his latest project Chris Shiflett and the Dead Peasants. Featuring Greg Leisz (Wilco, Emmylou Harris) on pedal steel and songstress Audra Mae on backing vocals, the self-titled debut, released earlier this month on Le Coq Napoleon/RCA, feels decidedly more roots-driven than other Foo side projects. Jangly, Americana-style hooks roll behind bittersweet and weary lyrics, spinning tales of hope and heartbreak. Shiflett winds up a series of SoCal dates tonight before setting off on a U.S. tour that includes a lineup of Luke Tierney on bass, Eric Skodis on drums, Derek Silverman on keyboards, and Marty Rifkin on pedal steel, and L.A. singer-songwriter Ari Shine as the opener.

||| Download: “Bandaged”

||| Live: Chris Shiflett & the Dead Peasants play tonight at the Hotel Cafe.

– By Addy Danti