Bands we like

Dry the River

Latest release: “Weights and Measures” EP (RCA)

Who: Dry the River began in 2009 as the solo acoustic project of Peter Liddle, a med school dropout who eventually recruited some friends from his old punk rock days to give his classic-sounding folk songs, influenced by Leonard Cohen, John Steinbeck and the King James Bible, a little extra oomph (and violin, courtesy of Will Harvey). The London-based five-piece begins 2012 with a head of steam, landing on the BBC Sound of 2012 list and Q magazine’s “Faces of 2012.”

What they’re saying: “Packed with catchy riffs and overlaid with lyrical intelligence.” – GQ

What we’re saying: On disc, Dry the River prompt easy comparisons to Mumford and Sons, favoring sparse, dusty arrangements with lots of acoustic guitars, foot stomps and lyrics that often seem ripped from the memoirs of some 19th century American frontiersman. But in concert, their punk roots shine through, as the acoustic instruments and choir-boy harmonies give way to choruses that rage as hard as any Gaslight Anthem tune. If their debut album, “Shallow Bed” (due out this spring), can capture more of the band’s live dynamic, then Dry the River’s future is bright. – Andy Hermann

Official website: http://www.drytheriver.net/

["Bands we like" is a nationally syndicated showcase for some of Metromix's favorite new and less widely recognized artists. Browse the gallery to see past picks.]