“Carol” by Hawk & Steel

 

     “Carol” limits itself in length and therefore foregoes the expansive canvas afforded to a nearly ten-minute track. Even so, the release from Hawk & Steel brings to mind one of the most celebrated guitar showcases: The Outlaws’ 1975 classic “Green Grass and High Tides.” Both songs are rooted in Country Rock and feature guitar-driven bridges that begin with a melodic enchantment before blossoming into intricate layers of guitar work, creating a sense of controlled chaos. The guitar jam during “Carol” is compelling, likely leaving concert-goers curious as to whether Hawk & Steel will expand it during live performances, as did The Outlaws with their single.
 
     The two bands are from diagonally opposite corners of the U.S. In fact, Hawk & Steel are based in Victoria, a Canadian city with coastal charm and beauty. Victoria is the capital city of British Columbia. The Outlaws were from Tampa, Florida.
 
      The lyrics of “Carol” are included in this post. The vocalist represents a man hoping to talk privately to Carol, but he is realistic – “I know deep down, you’ll never leave him.” The song is one of ten tracks from the album “Ain't Never Movin' On.” Another recommended song from the album is “Take Me Out,” which includes pedal steel guitar, a guest female vocalist, and saxophone that closes out the track.
 
     The members of the Canadian band are Peter Gardner (vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar), Ian Johnson (electric guitar), Rob Phillips (drums), and Rob ‘Bobby’ Walsh (bass). The album benefits from collaborations with longstanding pedal steel player Marc Jenkins, keyboardist Hugh Mackie, saxophonist Andrew Greenwood, and vocalist Charlotte McGee. 

     Quoting interesting content about the album:
  “After stepping away in 2017 for a near decade-long hiatus, the band has returned recharged with their first new music in more than a decade. Their third full-length album ‘Ain’t Never Movin’ On,’ marks a new chapter. Featuring ten new songs, Hawk & Steel captures the restless spirit of their earlier work with a deeper, more reflective edge and mature voice.
  On ‘Ain’t Never Movin’ On,’ the band blends twang-soaked guitars, driving rhythms, and introspective lyricism to carve out a distinct voice that feels both nostalgic and urgent. Their songs lean into themes of reflection, change, and emotional honesty.”
 
     “Carol” by Hawk & Steel
 

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Lyrics of “Carol” by Hawk & Steel
Just call you up to see what you’re doing
I’ve been thinking about running away this season
You’re so good to me, I wish I was dreaming
I know deep down, you’ll never leave him
 
Carol tell me you’re at home, all alone
Without letting him know
Carol tell me you’re at home, all alone
Without letting him know
 
Just call you up to see if you’re sleeping
Well I’ve been thinking about, starting my own season
You’re so good to me, I wish I was dreaming
‘Cause I know deep down, you’ll never leave him
 
Carol tell me you’re at home, all alone,
Without letting him know
Carol tell me you’re at home, all alone,
Without letting him know
 
[Instrumental bridge]
 
Carol tell me you’re at home,
Without letting him know
Carol tell me you’re at home,
Without letting him know