Tabernacle record disappoints die-hards

Playing infrequent live dates since its inception, the band's first attempt at laying anything down in the studio is this 7-inch record and will likely be snatched up by eager fans as soon as it hits the street. That is, if they don't listen to it first.

Released on Chicago's "insurgent country" label Bloodshot records, this all-too-short introduction to 2 Star Tabernacle is not truly a showcase of its songwriting talents.

Both songs on the record were unfortunately written by non-band members, and are sung, in whole or part, by '50s R&B legend Andre Williams.

The A side of the record, "Lilly White Mama & Jet Black Daddy" was written by Williams some 40 years ago, and it shows.

Putting this slab of vinyl on the table is like a quick trip back in time. As if the title weren't an obvious enough clue, the song's lyrics deal with an interracial marriage. The child in that marriage, presumably Williams, doesn't understand why his parents are so different. He sings in the chorus: "I don't know which way to go/one of these colors just got to go."

The tune is slow-moving, keeping just above ballad tempo, and would be perfect for National Public Radio, lyrics aside. The vocals remind one of Louis Armstrong from time to time, and the band is competent, although not well represented by such a low-quality recording.

On the flip side, 2 Star Tabernacle and Williams collaborate to cover the Hank Williams classic, "Ramblin' Man."

Lead guitarist and singer Dan Miller (he of Goober and the Peas fame) trades off vocalist duties with Williams on this side, and the marked difference in vocal style makes for an engaging contrast. Unfortunately, Williams rambles a little too much for his own good.

Overall, the record provides lightning quick and frankly disappointing introduction to one of Detroit's more interesting bands. The work is not the Tabernacle's own, and not a good representation of its work. Hopefully, 2 Star Tabernacle will release a full length record of original material in the near future. Hardcore fans of the local indie-country (or "insurgent country") movement will have to wait until then to find something worthwhile from their hometown heroes.

2 Star Tabernacle

Lily White Mama

& Jet Black Daddy

Bloodshot

Reviewed by

Daily Arts Writer

Gabe Fajuri

HH

11-24-98