Dan Webb has increasingly evolved into a conceptual artist, drawing inspiration from unexpected places. His recent EPs showcase this evolution: one revisited his punk past, another was sparked by a surprise encounter with an old friend, and yet another stemmed from a quirky and mysterious assignment. Earlier, Webb sharpened his recording skills under the guidance of the legendary Steve Albini—a creative investment that continues to pay off. While Webb remains a punk rock lifer at heart, pigeonholing him as just that would sell his versatility short.

Take his latest EP, Difficult Creek, where Webb ventures into alt-country territory. Collaborating with Adam Nurre on bass, drums, percussion, and keys (and additional vocals), the EP also features guest appearances from Kullen Fox (Charley Crockett) on trumpet and Kate Wakefield (Lung) on cello. The folky, alt-country, and indie rock vibe perfectly complements the concept behind the record: a collection of family-inspired songs, directly and indirectly.

“Some were written by relatives of mine, while others were adapted from family lore,” Webb explains. The liner notes on Bandcamp provide further info, like how he set a poem from his uncle to music. The material is rich and varied, with stories of his family’s American past, a highway robbery, a chilling murder ballad (“I may have killed a man // I left him lying for dead // I took a shovel // and bashed-in his head”).

The depth of Difficult Creek almost begs for a full-length treatment—something I’d wholeheartedly welcome. Once again, Dan Webb strikes gold!

Add to wantlist: Bandcamp