Make It A Double

The Two Gallants, a title referring to the story Dubliners (James Joyce)- functions as much more than the original that inspired the band. The book it references focuses on Ireland's national identity quest, marking a historical period in the early 20th century. The band's music could correlate to this as it is a quest of two gentlemen from San Francisco possibly writing their own chapter in musical history. Adam Stephans and Tyson Vogel formed Two Gallants in 2002 and have been writing music together from childhood. When I first opened ears to the kind chords strummed by the young men, my attention surrendered to what it was they wanted to tell me. The vocals are full of distinction, death and love. At first sound, it may rub you differently than any other indie rock melodia. I think this is what makes Two Gallants gifted. Two humans, one sound- and a lot of work to get their current tour on the road with another favorite artist, Blitzen Trapper. Lead vocalist Adam's sui generis coax of the mic is one that sticks in your head long after you take the ear buds off when you get to work. Judging by the stories that unravel in the lyrics, we the listener may have a thing or two to learn from Two Gallants. And if the words don't get you, the harmonica will.


And a night-cap-glance at photos from the 2010 Hardly Stricken Blue Grass Festival...