Top 10 Larkin Poe Songs

Larkin Poe Songs

Feature Photo: Rs-foto, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

When it comes to modern roots rock, few bands embody the grit and authenticity of the American South quite like Larkin Poe. Led by sisters Rebecca and Megan Lovell, this Georgia-born and Nashville-based duo has risen to prominence with their fiery brand of blues-infused rock. Known for their southern harmonies, electric guitar riffs, and the signature slide of Megan’s lap steel, Larkin Poe brings an unmistakable energy to every performance, drawing frequent comparisons to the Allman Brothers for their dynamic sound. Their music is steeped in tradition but with a fresh, modern twist that appeals to fans across generations.

Rebecca and Megan’s musical journey began with the Lovell Sisters band, but after its disbandment in 2010, the two regrouped to form Larkin Poe. Taking their name from an ancestor who was a cousin of Edgar Allan Poe, they crafted a sound that fused their deep connection to Southern roots with modern rock influences. Over the past decade, Larkin Poe has released a series of critically acclaimed albums, including Peach (2017) and Venom & Faith (2018), both of which firmly established them as leaders in the contemporary blues-rock scene.

The sisters’ relentless work ethic, undeniable musical talent, and impressive catalog have earned them recognition on some of the world’s biggest stages, including Glastonbury Festival and collaborations with legends like T Bone Burnett. Their most recent album, Blood Harmony (2022), solidified their place among modern blues greats, winning the 2024 Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Blues Album. With their unique ability to honor the past while carving out their own path, Larkin Poe continues to define the future of roots rock with passion and authenticity.

# 10 -If God Was A Woman – Larkin Poe

Larkin Poe’s “If God Is A Woman,” from their seventh studio album Bloom, captures the raw energy and boldness that have defined the band’s unique blend of roots rock and contemporary blues. Released as a single after Bluephoria in 2023, this track is a powerful statement from the Lovell sisters, Megan and Rebecca. With lyrics that reflect a push against the constraints of gender stereotypes, the song taps into a rebellious spirit, expressing a mix of wit and defiance. Rebecca Lovell has explained that the song was written to resist the “typecasting of women,” a theme woven into the sardonic blues-rock fabric of the track.

Musically, “If God Is A Woman” features the signature gritty slide guitar work of Megan Lovell alongside Rebecca’s powerhouse vocals. The song’s production was helmed by the Lovell sisters in collaboration with Rebecca’s partner, Tyler Bryant, giving it a rich and textured sound that draws from both the traditional and the modern. The production captures the essence of their live performances while pushing into new sonic territory, embracing a heavier, more contemporary feel. Recorded during the Bloom sessions, the track is a standout with its dynamic structure and lyrical punch, driving home the song’s message of personal empowerment and individuality.

Lyrically, the song is a provocative exploration of power dynamics and gender roles. Lines like “If God is a woman, the devil is too” juxtapose the divine with the demonic, challenging conventional notions of femininity. The imagery of “walking on water through the swamp” and turning “water into wine” invokes biblical themes, but here they are reclaimed with a rebellious edge. The repeated phrase “I’m gonna pray for you” adds a layer of irony, suggesting that the speaker is not merely asking for divine intervention but asserting her own strength and resilience in the face of those who underestimate her.

“If God Is A Woman” is the first song on this list, showcasing Larkin Poe’s ability to blend their deep roots in blues with modern themes of empowerment and defiance. This track serves as a powerful opener for a collection of their best work, setting the stage for further exploration of their evolving sound and lyrical complexity.

# 9 – John the Revelator

As the second song on this list of the Top 10 Larkin Poe Songs, “John the Revelator” demonstrates the band’s ability to reimagine classic gospel blues tracks with their own distinctive style. Originally recorded by Blind Willie Johnson in 1930, this traditional gospel song has seen many interpretations, but Larkin Poe brings a fresh, modern intensity to the piece. Their version was notably featured in the Lucifer TV series, enhancing its reputation for being dark and evocative, while still staying true to the song’s spiritual roots.

Featured on their 2017 album Peach, the Lovell sisters (Rebecca and Megan) produced their version of the song, showcasing their deep understanding of American roots music. Rebecca’s fervent vocals, combined with Megan’s striking slide guitar, create an atmosphere of tension and power that is both chilling and gripping. The song’s simple yet impactful arrangement emphasizes its haunting message, with each chorus driving home the biblical references in a powerful, cyclical manner.

Lyrically, “John the Revelator” draws heavily from the Book of Revelation and other biblical passages, focusing on apocalyptic themes and John of Patmos, who wrote about the opening of the seven seals. The lyrics are filled with rich imagery of divine prophecy, and Larkin Poe amplifies these themes with an eerie, almost otherworldly energy. The refrain—“Who’s that writin’? John the Revelator”—resonates throughout the track, invoking a sense of mystery and foreboding. This version not only pays homage to the song’s spiritual origins but also reinterprets it in a way that feels contemporary and vibrant, making it a standout in Larkin Poe’s repertoire.

# 8 – Deep Stays Down

“Deep Stays Down” is the opening track of Blood Harmony, Larkin Poe’s Grammy-winning sixth studio album released on November 11, 2022, by Tricki-Woo Records. Written by Rebecca Lovell and Tyler Bryant, the song sets the tone for the album’s contemporary blues-rock sound. The track delves into themes of hidden truths and the weight of secrets that refuse to rise to the surface—”The river runs deep, and the deep stays down.” It’s a powerful metaphor for the burdens we carry, quietly submerged beneath the surface of our lives.

Musically, “Deep Stays Down” features a strong lineup of musicians. Rebecca Lovell provides lead vocals and electric guitar, with Megan Lovell contributing harmony vocals and signature lap steel and Dobro work. The rhythm section, anchored by Tarka Layman on bass and Caleb Crosby on drums, gives the song its driving, ominous feel. Additional instrumentation includes Tyler Bryant’s programming and keyboards, adding a modern edge to the song’s rootsy foundation.

The production on Blood Harmony, handled by Rebecca Lovell, Megan Lovell, and Tyler Bryant, strikes a perfect balance between modern and traditional blues. Bryant, who also engineered the track alongside Roger Alan Nichols, helps craft a sound that feels both fresh and timeless. The song was recorded with meticulous care, and David Benyamin’s mixing along with Dan Shike’s mastering brings out the dark and intense tone of the track.

Lyrically, the song is filled with vivid imagery: “There’s a bullet in the gun, the gun went missing,” and “The trap got sprung, I read it in the paper.” The lyrics reflect a narrative of deception, guilt, and the constant attempt to bury the truth. The repetition of the line “The deep stays down” reinforces the theme of secrets that refuse to be revealed, an apt metaphor for the weight of suppressed emotions and unresolved conflicts. This track not only showcases Larkin Poe’s gritty roots sound but also their deep, introspective lyricism.

As the opener to Blood Harmony, “Deep Stays Down” sets the stage for an album that blends personal narratives with universal themes, all against a backdrop of contemporary blues and rock. With its gripping instrumentation and thought-provoking lyrics, the song is a perfect example of why Larkin Poe continues to push the boundaries of the genre.

# 7 – Back Down South

“Back Down South” is a track from Self Made Man, the fifth studio album by Larkin Poe, released on June 12, 2020, through Tricki-Woo Records. Produced by sisters Rebecca and Megan Lovell, the album showcases their deep connection to Southern roots and American heritage, and this song, co-written by Rebecca Lovell and her husband, Tyler Bryant, embodies those themes perfectly. As this song opens, the melody in the verse reminds me a little bit of the Eagle’s “Life In The Fast Lane.”

“Back Down South” is a reflection of Larkin Poe’s love and reverence for the musical history of the American South. Its lyrics pay homage to iconic Southern artists like Little Richard and James Brown, while also referencing legendary places like Macon, Georgia, home to the Allman Brothers Band. Musically, the song blends blues, rock, and roots elements with a modern twist, capturing the essence of Southern rock while giving it a fresh energy.

The song’s production is rooted in the duo’s hallmark style, with Rebecca’s soulful lead vocals and guitar work accompanied by Megan’s atmospheric lap steel and harmony vocals. The instrumentation is tight and powerful, creating an immersive soundscape. The rhythm section, bolstered by Tyler Bryant’s influence, drives the track forward, blending raw Southern blues-rock energy with heartfelt, nostalgic lyrics.

Lyrically, “Back Down South” is rich with imagery of the Southern landscape, invoking the iconic red dirt, peaches, and the historic musical heritage of the region. Lines like “Where Little Richard was singing, where rock n’ roll learned to walk” not only pay tribute to rock’s roots but also underscore the timeless connection between place and sound. The recurring plea to “Send me back down south” reflects a yearning for home and the comforting familiarity of one’s origins, tying into the broader theme of Southern pride and musical legacy.

As one of the tracks that captures the heart and soul of Self Made Man, “Back Down South” stands as a reminder of the enduring power of Southern music and culture, with Larkin Poe proudly taking their place among its modern torchbearers.

# 6 – Mad As A Hatter

“Mad As A Hatter,” featured on Paint The Roses: Live In Concert (2021), is a deeply personal and emotional track for Larkin Poe’s Rebecca and Megan Lovell. The song was inspired by their paternal grandfather, who struggled with mental illness for several years before being diagnosed with schizophrenia. Through Rebecca’s raw and vulnerable vocal delivery, the song reflects on the painful experience of witnessing a loved one lose touch with reality while grappling with the fear of inheriting that same fate.

The lyrics are poignant and haunting, with Rebecca singing lines like, “Just like the father of my father, time stole his mind / And I can’t forget that one-fourth of his blood is mine.” This introspective reflection on family legacy and the hereditary nature of mental illness creates a powerful emotional depth in the song. The refrain, “Mad as a hatter,” serves as both a colloquial expression of eccentricity and a historical reference to the mercury poisoning suffered by 18th- and 19th-century hat makers, adding layers of meaning to the song’s exploration of mental instability.

Musically, the track showcases the duo’s blend of roots rock and blues with an emphasis on mood and atmosphere. The live performance featured on Paint The Roses brings the song to life, capturing the emotional intensity of the lyrics through Rebecca’s vocals and Megan’s lap steel guitar work, which adds a haunting, ethereal quality to the song. The instrumentation perfectly complements the lyrics, creating a balance between the sorrow and the strength found in confronting personal and familial struggles.

“Mad As A Hatter” resonates deeply with audiences, not only for its personal story but for its universal themes of fear, family, and mental health. It is a standout track in Larkin Poe’s discography, showcasing the band’s ability to blend personal narratives with broader historical and cultural references, all while maintaining their signature sound.

# 5 – Blood Harmony

“Blood Harmony,” the title track from Larkin Poe’s sixth studio album released on November 11, 2022, showcases the Lovell sisters’ deep musical and familial bond. The album, produced under Tricki-Woo Records, earned the duo their second Grammy nomination and eventually won the 2024 Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Blues Album. This track, with its unique fusion of rock, blues, gospel, and soul, pays tribute to the “blood harmony” created when family members sing together, an idea that resonates deeply in both the song’s lyrics and its powerful delivery.

The song opens with a reflection on heritage, with the lyrics “God gave mama a singin’ voice / Mama passed it down to me,” emphasizing the importance of familial connection in their music. The song’s instrumentation is driven by tight, slinky twin guitar riffs that blend with the harmonies of Rebecca and Megan Lovell, creating a sound that mirrors the interconnectedness of family. The rhythm section, powered by Kevin McGowan on drums and Tarka Layman on bass, grounds the track in a groove that feels both earthy and transcendent. Their collaborative energy allows the Lovell sisters to take flight vocally, with their harmonies lifting the song to new heights.

Lyrically, “Blood Harmony” celebrates the bond between the Lovell sisters, underscoring the idea that this connection goes beyond “flesh and bone,” as the pre-chorus suggests. The chorus itself is a call to action, with the repeated line, “Y’all know what I need / Clap your hands and stomp your feet,” creating an infectious, participatory feel that draws the listener into the family circle. The song’s bridge is especially powerful, with the metaphor of music as a river that “rolls” and “sets you free,” a reflection of the way music connects the soul and binds family ties through time.

Musically, the Lovell sisters’ dynamic interplay and the seamless melding of genres in “Blood Harmony” set it apart from other contemporary blues tracks. The production, which was handled by the Lovell sisters themselves, along with Rebecca’s partner Tyler Bryant, highlights the personal and musical synergy that fuels the entire Blood Harmony album. The track stands as an emblem of their roots, showcasing how deeply their family history is intertwined with their music and how they continue to push the boundaries of the blues-rock genre while staying true to their origins.

# 4 – Mississippi

“Mississippi” from Venom & Faith, released in 2018 under Tricki-Woo Records, is a deep dive into the roots of blues, both musically and lyrically. The song reflects Larkin Poe’s strong connection to the Southern traditions and history that shape much of their sound. With its gritty and raw feel, “Mississippi” combines rock and blues in a way that mirrors the tension and release found in the story the lyrics tell.

Lyrically, the song revolves around the classic blues motif of selling one’s soul at the crossroads, a reference to the legend of blues guitarist Robert Johnson, who allegedly made a deal with the devil in exchange for his musical talent. The line “Off to the crossroads, ain’t much to lose / I’ve got but one soul to sell for the blues” directly invokes this myth, grounding the track in the rich, dark folklore of the Mississippi Delta. The repetition of the word “Mississippi” adds to the song’s rhythmic intensity, creating an atmosphere that feels heavy with history and burden.

The themes of “pain and misery” in the lyrics tie into the emotional weight of the blues as a genre. By singing about being “pulled” by the plow from “sunup ’til sundown,” the song paints a picture of a life bound to hardship, labor, and eventual spiritual struggle. The recurring phrase “pain and misery” reinforces the relentless nature of these burdens, while the devil’s presence symbolizes temptation and difficult choices.

Musically, “Mississippi” captures the feeling of deep Southern blues with its haunting slide guitar riffs, pulsating rhythm, and the raw, soul-stirring harmonies of Rebecca and Megan Lovell. The sparse production allows the weight of the lyrics to take center stage, while the music mirrors the cyclical, oppressive feeling of the song’s narrative. The song evokes a sense of inevitability, reflecting the difficulty of escaping one’s roots and the ever-present influence of the past. This track, like many on Venom & Faith, showcases Larkin Poe’s ability to blend traditional blues with their own modern energy, all while staying true to the genre’s emotional core.

# 3 – Bleach Blonde Bottle Blues

Released in 2018 on Venom & Faith, “Bleach Blonde Bottle Blues” is one of Larkin Poe’s most spirited and blues-infused tracks. Written by Rebecca Lovell, the song embodies an unapologetic, rebellious woman who refuses to conform to societal expectations. With its gritty lyrics and infectious groove, this anthem exemplifies the band’s ability to merge Southern rock and blues with a modern twist.

The title itself, “Bleach Blonde Bottle Blues,” suggests a persona that is bold and defiant. The imagery of a “boom bombshell” with “weapon-grade legs” and “shell pink Cadillac” evokes a woman who turns heads, drawing attention not only for her physical appearance but for her confidence and fiery attitude. The chorus, which repeats “What you gonna do with them bleach blonde bottle blues?” asks how she will channel that energy and fire, implying that her fierce independence has the potential to either empower or destroy.

Lyrically, the song portrays a strong character who has “been everywhere” and “seen everything.” This hints at the idea that despite the exterior, this woman is world-weary and no longer impressed by what life throws at her. The metaphor of “bleach blonde” speaks to reinvention, the self-imposed transformation that many adopt to match society’s ideals. However, in the context of this song, it’s clear that the protagonist is embracing who she is without needing to please anyone.

Musically, “Bleach Blonde Bottle Blues” is driven by Larkin Poe’s signature blend of slide guitar and thumping rhythms, which evoke the raw, rebellious spirit of Southern rock. Megan Lovell’s lap steel guitar adds a fiery, gritty edge to the track, underscoring the bluesy themes of resilience and self-expression. Rebecca’s commanding vocals match the swagger of the lyrics, exuding a sense of independence and fierceness.

The refrain, “You gotta ride at your own risk,” serves as a powerful message throughout the song. It encourages living life on your own terms, embracing the risk of failure or hardship as long as you stay true to yourself. This sense of rebellion and freedom aligns with the band’s ethos of forging a path rooted in the traditions of blues but pushing forward with a modern, fearless sound.

# 2 – Hard Time Killing Floor Blues

Larkin Poe’s rendition of “Hard Time Killing Floor Blues” on their Venom & Faith album is a powerful interpretation of Skip James’ classic blues track. Originally written during the Great Depression, the song captures the desperation and struggle of that era, and Larkin Poe’s version updates this sentiment for modern times with a haunting, resonant energy that is deeply rooted in their Southern rock and blues foundation.

The song’s lyrics express the anguish of economic hardship and the feeling of hopelessness that accompanies it. Lines like “Hard times are here and everywhere you go” and “These hard times’ll kill you dead and there ain’t no cure” paint a stark picture of poverty, one that is timeless and tragically relevant across generations. Larkin Poe keeps these themes intact while adding their own contemporary flair, giving the song new life without losing its emotional weight.

Musically, the sisters incorporate their signature lap steel guitar and harmonies to add an eerie, foreboding tone. Rebecca Lovell’s raw, soulful vocals paired with Megan Lovell’s lap steel guitar create a dark, brooding atmosphere that mirrors the lyrics’ message of hardship. The minimalistic yet powerful instrumentation allows the emotion of the song to shine through, highlighting the despair but also the resilience embedded in the blues tradition.

In their version, the Lovell sisters remain true to the original’s somber mood but give it a modern edge, making the song not only a tribute to its roots but also a reminder that the struggles of the past are not so far removed from those faced today. Hard Time Killing Floor Blues stands out on Venom & Faith as a bridge between the old and the new, showcasing Larkin Poe’s ability to carry forward the legacy of traditional blues while making it relevant for contemporary audiences.

# 1 – Preachin’ Blues

“Preachin’ Blues,” featured on Larkin Poe’s Peach (2017), is a fiery interpretation of the classic blues track originally written by Son House. The song carries a deep connection to the roots of Delta blues, and Larkin Poe adds their own distinctive modern touch. Peach itself was a self-produced project that propelled the Lovell sisters into the spotlight, earning them a nomination for the Blues Foundation’s Best Emerging Artist Album in 2018. This track perfectly encapsulates their ability to merge traditional blues influences with their own Southern rock style.

Lyrically, “Preachin’ Blues” tells the story of a character who seeks solace in religion, contemplating becoming a preacher to avoid the burden of work while fantasizing about creating a peaceful, heavenly home for his women. Lines such as “Gonna be a preacher, so I don’t have to work” reflect a sardonic twist on the idea of salvation, while “Give all of my women a long and happy home” highlights the blues’ frequent exploration of love, struggle, and desire. Larkin Poe captures this blend of humor and hardship, keeping the tone light but acknowledging the heavier themes of existential yearning and spiritual salvation.

In their rendition, Rebecca Lovell’s raw and soulful vocals shine, accompanied by Megan Lovell’s electrifying lap steel guitar that infuses the song with grit and intensity. The energy of their version of “Preachin’ Blues” is powerful, with the sisters amplifying the track’s urgency while maintaining the simplicity of the original composition. Their arrangement remains true to the blues’ roots, but they elevate it with modern, rock-influenced dynamism that breathes new life into the century-old song.

By including “Preachin’ Blues” on Peach, Larkin Poe not only pays homage to one of the most iconic blues legends, Son House, but also continues their mission of revitalizing traditional Southern music for a contemporary audience. The fusion of their energetic style and the timeless storytelling of Delta blues makes this track a standout moment on an album that helped solidify their place in the modern blues rock scene.

 

Top 10 Larkin Poe Songs article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024

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