On his new single, “War is Hell,” Easton-based singer-songwriter Michael Roi pushes forward by looking back — way back.
“War” tells the story of a Union soldier about to head into battle at Gettysburg.
The song is a little more country and little less rock ‘n’ roll.
It also features stellar banjo playing by guest musician Lucas Sutphen (Blue Heart’s Revelry).
“War” is a significant departure from the usual guitar fireworks and sonic bombardment typically associated with the Easton-based musician’s band, Roi and the Secret People.
But the stylistic shift and tonal change works in Roi’s favor.
“War” is one of the most passionately sung tunes he has recorded so far. There is an intensity to his vocals not heard in quite some time.
The lyrical structure and narrative is enhanced by the fervor in which Roi delivers his lines; each chorus a little louder and more expressive.
“War” is the first single from his upcoming EP, “The Ballad of Annabelle.” The album will follow the journey the title character, Annabelle. After her husband returns from war, the two get married and then head out on a life-changing expedition to the Wild West.
If “War” is any indication, this one story that you won't want to put down.