For almost 20 years, Old 97‘s have been making music that mixes the twang of Texas country with the jangle of Britpop.Instead of becoming a tired formula, however, the band has refined their approach over the years, and as “Brown Haired Daughter,” the new single from this year’s album Grand Theater Vol. 2 shows, they’ve only become tighter as songwriters and musicians.
Old 97′s wear their middle age gracefully, knowing that you’re only as old as you feel. On “Brown Haired Daughter” they sound pretty youthful, the song is an apology to the parents of the narrator’s girlfriend – not exactly a theme you’d expect when the band members are old enough to be parents themselves. Lead singer Rhett Miller sings, “And I tried/ Tried to leave it all alone/ Send your brown haired daughter home/ But I can’t/ So I won’t.”
Old 97′s carry the tune with their natural ease and charm. “Brown Haired Girl” doesn’t break any new ground for the band, but rather shows them excelling at what they do best.
