Larkin Poe: The Southern-Fueled Force of Modern Blues Rock
Larkin Poe is an American roots rock band fronted by the multi-instrumentalist sisters Rebecca and Megan Lovell. Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, the duo has carved a distinct niche by revitalizing classic blues and folk rock sounds for a contemporary audience, earning a Grammy nomination and building a robust independent career through relentless touring and a prolific release schedule.
Early Career
Originally performing as The Lovell Sisters with their elder sibling Jessica, the trio gained early recognition by placing third in the 2005 season of "A Prairie Home Companion"'s talent contest. After Jessica's departure in 2010, Rebecca and Megan reinvented themselves as Larkin Poe, a name taken from a distant ancestral relative, and independently released their debut EP, "Spring," in 2010, signaling a shift toward a grittier, blues-oriented sound.
Breakthrough
The band's breakthrough arrived with their 2014 album "Kin," which crystallized their blend of slide guitar-driven blues, folk storytelling, and rock energy. This release, along with the subsequent "Reskinned" EP in 2015, established their core identity and attracted a dedicated fanbase, leading to high-profile touring opportunities and setting the stage for their fully independent and critically acclaimed album series that began in 2018.
Key Tracks
Bleach Blonde Bottle Blues - This hard-rocking single from 2018's "Venom & Faith" became a live staple and showcased their ability to craft a modern, swaggering blues anthem.
Preachin' Blues - A raw and powerful cover of the Son House classic, highlighting their deep reverence for the blues tradition and Megan Lovell's masterful lap steel guitar work.
Bad Spell - A track from 2020's "Self Made Man" that exemplifies their signature sound, combining swampy grooves, fiery guitar solos, and Rebecca's commanding vocals.
She's a Self Made Man - The title track from their 2020 album serves as a defiant mission statement, blending southern rock attitude with their independent spirit.
Since their breakthrough, Larkin Poe has maintained a formidable pace, releasing a series of well-received albums like "Blood Harmony" in 2022. They have collaborated with artists like Elvis Costello and Tyler Bryant, and their energetic live performances have solidified their reputation as a leading force in the modern blues rock scene, all while operating largely on their own Tricki-Woo Records label.
Fans of Larkin Poe's gritty, southern-infused rock may also enjoy the work of similar artists such as The Record Company, a band also known for its raw, blues-based garage rock. The Black Keys offer another parallel with their minimalist, riff-heavy approach to modern blues rock. For those drawn to the sisterly harmony and rootsy vibe, the country-rock sounds of The Secret Sisters provide a compelling listen, while the powerful vocals and blues-rock guitar of Brittany Howard's solo work resonate with a similar intensity.
