Muddy Waters once said "People should hear the pure blues - the blues
we used to have when we had no money." Such a sound as he alludes to is
likely to never be heard again, but few will come closer than a New
Hampshire hermit whose name in French reads "Ray, the Mountain."
Backed by the enormity of debut album Trouble, second single How
Come again showcases that rasping voice that paints pictures of social
exclusion, depravity and, well, trouble. Unlike the previously-released
title track, however, LaMontagne here introduces a somewhat upbeat feel,
with his lead guitar providing an equally delicious hook to that of his
vocal.
Infused with a modern day social commentary - "How come I can't tell
the free world from a living hell" - the track adds a contemporary edge to a
sound that harks back to the good old days. With Neil Young is
approaching his 61st birthday, it is clear that the future of great
American folk is in very safe hands.
