“If what the Benedictions play truly is devil music, then can someone please point me to the nearest Satanic church so that I can fill out my membership application form? This record is a winning mix of country, rockabilly, and folk all played with a serious edge. They remind me somewhat of Death & Taxes, minus the punk influences. Having three lead singers each with a distinct voice helps keep things fresh, and the band knows that even in outsider music like this, you still need to have good hooks. While the singers are all strong, it’s the musicianship that truly stands out. The band is extremely adept at setting a scene instrumentally, be it the rush of an oncoming train or the desolation of a ghost town. At times, the Benedictions make me want to dance, and times they make me want to mosey. I can’t remember the last time a record moved me to undertake the underrated pleasure of moseying, so these guys are definitely aces in my book. (Kevin Finn)”
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The Noise: Rock around Boston
“The Benedictions, who just released The Benedictions Play Devil Music, serve up engaging fare for listeners with a predilection toward the Band, Uncle Tupelo, Creedence Clearwater Revival, and Neil Young. The quartet says Devil Music is "Americana, on the rocks," brewed in a garage on a deserted heartland prairie. Guitarists Kelly Burke and G.W Mercure and bassist Rob Shot all share lead and backing vocals, anchored by drummer Mike Tomasso. The twang of "California" and "You May Not Be Alive For Too Long" cruise nicely alongside the toe-tapping "This Old River," while Mercure works in some mournful harmonica on "Hat's On the Table." "Crying Shame" and the fun gallop of "Lonesome Tears" are noteworthy midtempo highlights, but it's the high-spirited album opener "Pawn Shop Guitar" that keeps us coming back.”
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The Providence Phoenix
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