UNCLE SCRATCH’S GOSPEL REVIVAL:
North of Hell: CD
A bizarro gospel two piece consisting of Brother Ant and Brother Ed, who share guitar, vocal, drum and other assorted instrumental duties. The vocals are sung through a megaphone and there’s a palpable redneck vibe. I’ll bet if you saw these guys walking down the street, they’d both be chewin’ on a piece of straw. USGR is at their best when tackling country tinged spirituals like “Johnny, Jesus & Me,” “You’ve Got a Friend” and “Lord Took my Hand.” They come off like a couple of aww-shucks charmers. Not so appealing are the psychobilly stylings of “Gates of Hell.” If the picture in the liner notes is any indication of their live show, they must be a hoot to witness. A true and pleasant surprise. –Josh Benke (Rock N Roll Purgatory)