As the East Coast roots rock reggae scene grows, there’s some absolute fire coming out of South West Florida. Paradise Coast, Naples, FL to be exact. Named after the area itself, SOWFLO has just dropped their second full length album “New Shoes” on March 15th, 2019. Dance Your Face Off was fortunate enough to review the album, and also interview Jacob Dorris (lead singer/ guitar) about the new album. We gave it quite a few spins here at DYFO, and we’re very impressed.
This album, just like their first full length album “Such is Life,” was produced by Marc Lee, who has worked with powerhouses like Stephen and Damian Marley. The album was released under Spaceduck records. “New Shoes” is a great record with something for every listener, full of reggae rock beach vibes that are sure to have you dancing all summer long.
Jacob Dorris brings some very deep and relivent lyrics to each song. Lyrics that will hit every one in a different way, and sure to have you deeply reminiscing. Songs that will spark feelings from happiness, hope, and love, to thankfulness, sadness, and of course what we all need as we close out the winter, warm weather! Now, back those powerful lyrics up with super tight drum beats from Wes Mitzelfeld, sweet guitar licks from Jacob Dorris (rhythm) and Daniel Sahin on lead ax, and blazing horn from Nick Grim on the trombone. Last but not least, you have thumping bass lines coming in from Christian Yacono. Put that all together, and you get one powerful record.
These melodic jams will have you dancing through those long summer nights. “New Shoes” is a solid album from front to back, and even closes out with a ballad of sorts in “I Don’t Think.” In my opinion, it’s always the best way to end an album, and sure to be a sing along at the live shows to come. If you haven’t heard SOWFLO before, your ears are in for a treat. Be sure to check them out and follow them on all social media and music streaming apps for updates on tours, music, and all other band happenings.
Interview with Jacob Dorris
MD: How did the album name “New Shoes” come about?
JD: From all the album names we came up with, the band eventually decided on “New Shoes”. To us, this name represents new beginnings, however it can mean something different to each person who sees it; A new love, relationship, job, life chapter, etc… We feel like “New Shoes” is a good name to represent this new chapter for us, both as songwriters & performers.
MD: What was your best memory from your time recording “New Shoes?”
JD: That would have to be when we travelled to record “Farmer In Suburbia” for the album. SOWFLO flew to Kingston, Jamaica and tracked the entire song in one day at Bob Marley’s, Tuff Gong recording studio. We then stayed for a few more days to see the island and perform at Negril Reggae Festival.
MD: What’s your favorite track from the new album, and why?
JD: Amalia, Armagideon, Orion, Morning Thunder, I Don’t Think… But they’re all my babies. Ask me tomorrow and my picks may be different depending how i feel.
MD: What do you hope people take away from the new album?
JD: That’s not for me to decide. Once the album goes public those songs don’t just belong to the band anymore. People are going to take these songs & attach their own experiences & memories to them. Each person is going to experience the album a little bit different, but the message is deep if you choose to listen. I do hope our music finds you well.
MD: What should we expect from SOWFLO in the near future (tour, merch, etc)?
JD: Keep checking in with our social media for “New Shoes” Tour announcements to see when we’re hitting your city or state. We’ll also be launching our online store at SOWFLO.com in just weeks, where an entire new line of SOWFLO merchandise including our latest album will be readily available 24/7.
MD: What’s the must have road snacks for SOWFLO?
JD: Gardetto’s rye chips, bananas, nuts, protein bars… It depends what gas station we’re at.
Jacob Dorris
Singer/ Songwriter/ Lyrics at SOWFLO LLC
Mitchydread, Media Correspondent
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