"Born Fancy" review

 During the last two weeks, my record collection was expanded by three new albums. Apart from Steve Martin's new bluegrass album, there were two CDs by a band called "The Fancy Dan Band." I guess most of you folks never heard of Fancy Dan Nordheim and his group but that doesn't matter at all. The only thing you have to do is: give 'em a listen.

The Fancy Dan Band is based in San Francisco and plays a mixture between country, rock'n'roll and blues - so to say some of the most important musical genres in one style. "Born Fancy" was recorded in a three-day session in Nashville in 2008 as the group's debut, which will be the subject of today's review. The album kicks off with "Wake Up Fancy", a bluesy, smoking tune that clarifies the sound of this album. Group leader Fancy Dan's relaxed vocals, simple arrangements, a solid rhythm section and nice guitar licks from lead guitarist Michael Loebs. All in all, a down-home country and blues rock'n'roll.

The second track is a little bit slower but still has a nice rock'n'roll sound to it. The rhythm guitar intro really reflects the band's blues influence. "So Long", the third track, is a slow number with a country-pop influence. The remaining nine tracks follow the scheme of the first three songs, which makes "Born Fancy" a groundstanding, enjoyable album. Other highlights for me are "By the Shore," "Use Me," "Poor Rich Man" and "I Wanna Be Born." In my opinion, the Fancy Dan Band is a good alternative to the usual rockabilly bands - you can imagine sitting in an old honky tonk, listen to Fancy Dan and his band playing on the stage and drinking a cold beer.


Go to the Fancy Dan Band's website