It was the summer of 2005 when Saskatoon, Saskatchewan’s The Deep Dark Woods began shaping their sound, drawing from influences dating back to the earliest recorded folk music. The mixing of traditional folk music with rock and roll, alt-country and psychedelia takes their powerful original material from eerie gospel numbers to upbeat murder songs, covering plenty of ground in between. After only a handful of rehearsals the DDW played their first headlining show at a local club. Less than two years later they have shared the stage with The Sadies, Magnolia Electric Co., Utah Phillips and The Stills, toured extensively from British Columbia to Quebec, performed at several folk festivals and have released three full-length albums.
The DDW’s first studio effort, a self-titled 10 song release was recorded live-off-the-floor entirely on analog to capture the band’s earlier live sound. Their second full-length release Hang Me, Oh Hang Me, takes a different approach, with intricate arrangements, more substantial production and diverse instrumentation. Boasting songs from 3 different songwriters as well as pedal steel, organ, acoustic guitar, banjo and mandolin it is the perfect contrast the first record, taking most of the winter and spring of 2006/2007 to finish while the first record was recorded in one day. The bands emphasis has always been on songwriting, a feature which can be heard on either record as well as live in the many songs which have yet to be (and may never be) recorded.
The DDW are fronted mainly by Ryan T. Boldt, who splits lead/rhythm guitar duties with Burke Barlow. The rhythm section is rounded out by Chris Mason (bass) and Lucas Goetz (drums), who also provide the gorgeous 3-part harmonies which have become one of the band’s defining characteristics. The constantly growing sets of original material are always evolving, and together with just enough improvisation ensures the songs are always fresh for the band and crowd.
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