The Devil Makes Three: Stomp and Smash: Live at the Mystic Theater

The Devil Makes Three
Stomp and Smash: Live at the Mystic Theater
(Milan)
[Rating: 3.5 stars]

There is something vaguely familiar about The Devil Makes Three. At moments their sound brings to mind early Johnny Cash, full of the youthful fire that emanated from his Sun Records releases. Other times Old Crow Medicine Show seems like an apt comparison, with their high paced bluegrass sound that betrays a punk attitude. But trying to describe The Devil Makes Three by comparing them to other musicians falls flat after listening to a few different songs.

While it may seem strange that a band who has only released three full-length albums is already releasing their second live album, The Devil Makes Three have done exactly that. Stomp and Smash is a great introduction for those who are only now discovering the band, who blend genres seamlessly and obviously thrive in a live setting. In a time when many artists rely on lip synching and AutoTune, their unapologetically retro sound is refreshing.

The Devil Makes Three may not have the profile that bands like Avett Brothers and Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band yet, but they are releasing high quality music that translates well into a live setting. Stomp and Smash is strong enough to impress current fans of the band, despite only including two new songs. It also serves as a great starting point for people who are curious about the band. The balanced blend of songs from each of their albums and the inclusion of a couple of new tracks makes Stomp and Smash worth the purchase as not only a solid live release, but a necessary greatest hits compilation.