Larkin Poe

Larkin Poe is an American musical duo consisting of sisters Rebecca Lovell and Megan Lovell, known for their unique blend of blues, rock, and roots music. The band has garnered widespread acclaim for their powerful performances, infectious energy, and a distinctive sound that combines Southern rock influences with Americana, blues, and folk.

Formation and Background:

Larkin Poe was formed in Atlanta, Georgia, in the early 2010s, although the sisters have been playing music since they were young. They grew up in a musical family and were influenced by genres like bluegrass, rock, and folk. They initially gained attention as part of the duo The Lovell Sisters, which was active until 2009 before the sisters pursued a more rock-focused direction, leading to the creation of Larkin Poe. The name "Larkin Poe" is a tribute to their great-great-great-grandfather, Larkin Poe, who was an ancestor with a connection to the sisters' Southern roots.

Music and Style:

Larkin Poe's music is often described as rootsy, blues-infused rock, and Americana, with a strong emphasis on harmonized vocals, slide guitar, and acoustic elements. They combine a variety of genres, including blues, country, folk, and Southern rock, to create a sound that's both modern and deeply rooted in tradition. The band's performances are often raw and emotive, showcasing their skills as both musicians and performers. Rebecca plays guitar, often using slide guitar techniques, while Megan plays dobro (a type of resonator guitar), adding a unique texture to their sound. Their lyrics often explore themes of life, love, and personal reflection, with a particular focus on heartache and struggle.

Notable Albums:

• "Kinzua" (2014): Their debut album, which introduced their Southern rock and blues influences. It blends a mix of acoustic and electric instruments, setting the stage for their future work.
• "Reskinned" (2016): This album features a more polished and experimental sound compared to their debut, combining folk, blues, and pop influences. It includes songs like "Madness", which showcases their ability to blend powerful songwriting with strong instrumentation.
• "Peach" (2017): This album includes a mix of rock, blues, and roots music. It features tracks like "When God Closes a Door" and "Don't Fear the Reaper", demonstrating their ability to put a fresh twist on classic themes.
• "Venom & Faith" (2019): Considered one of their breakthrough albums, Venom & Faith received critical acclaim and solidified their reputation as one of the top acts in contemporary blues and Americana music. With tracks like "Bleach Blonde Bottle Blues" and "Preacher's Daughter", the album showcases their fusion of blues, rock, and Southern influences.
• "Self Made Man" (2020): This album, produced by the band itself, received rave reviews for its authenticity and boldness. It's a mixture of rock, blues, and folk, with standout tracks like "She Won't Go Away" and "Back Down South". It further solidified their place in the Americana scene and was praised for its energy and heartfelt lyrics.

Themes and Lyrics:

Larkin Poe’s lyrics are often introspective and personal, dealing with themes of love, heartache, self-discovery, and empowerment. Their songs are often a blend of gritty realism and emotional depth, offering listeners a glimpse into the complexity of human experiences, especially those rooted in relationships and personal growth. They also embrace the blues tradition in their music, which often reflects the hardships of life but also conveys resilience, making their sound both cathartic and empowering.

Influence and Legacy:

Larkin Poe has gained significant recognition for their energetic and dynamic performances, along with their blend of traditional Southern roots music with modern influences. They’ve built a dedicated following and are frequently featured in Americana, blues, and roots music circles. Their music resonates with a diverse audience, thanks to its rich, emotional delivery and its ability to blend the old with the new. The Lovell sisters' talents, both as musicians and vocalists, have helped Larkin Poe stand out in a crowded music scene, making them one of the leading acts in the Americana and blues scenes today. Larkin Poe is often praised for their authenticity, musical virtuosity, and the ability to inject modern energy into classic genres. They have been featured in major music festivals and continue to grow their fanbase around the world.