Live Oak Sunburst’s new song, “Lurleen” is a powerful American song that wants you to listen closely. Many musicians in this genre choose easy nostalgia, but Josh Roberts, the person who leads the project, uses the song to look at the deep, complex parts of Southern history. The song is about Lurleen Wallace, a woman who is often covered up by her husband’s story, but Roberts tells her story with real compassion instead of political hype.
“Lurleen” relies on steady and simple rhythm guitar so the words can shine. The song is heavy, like the telling stories of Jason Isbell or John Prine. The production foregoes the extra fancy parts and just goes with a beat that is old and fresh at the same time. It is rare to find a songwriter that can blend deep history with tender melodies. By examining the human side of power and what comes after, Live Oak Sunburst created a song that sounds like an old classic that’s been found in a dusty attic.
If you are one of those who love songs that offer more than a decent hook, then you must add “Lurleen” to your playlist. It is a haunting, beautiful reminder that the best stories are often the ones we have not told right.
