Hell Week: Satan's Paradise

Kieran Kane, Kevin Welch & Fats Kaplin: Satan's Paradise

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Yes, we have been to a very dark place, and now we see the error of our ways, and seek redemption. But friends, the path to redemption is not smooth! Now, brothers and sisters, NOW is the time when the devil is strongest! He will lay traps and snares for us in the form of wicked temptations! Will you be strong enough?

I have never heard a better description of these temptations than in this song. I imagine a dirt track under a gray sky. A breeze is just strong enough to blow the dust about, seemingly forming pictures. I'll let Kane Kaplan & Welch describe those pictures.

These fine gentlemen have known temptation of another sort. I'll use Kieran Kane's story by way of explanation. Kane first recorded as part of the duo the O'Kanes. If you recognize the name, you know that the O'Kanes had a string of hits on the country charts. Nevertheless, their label wanted them to change their sound to be more commercial. The pressure to do so led to the breakup of the group, and the end of their recording contract. Kieran Kane then signed with another major label as a solo artist. He recorded one album for them, which tanked after receiving minimal promotional support from said label, and he was soon without a contract once again. Up to this point, classic tale of life in the music industry.

But at this point, the story changed. Kieran Kane found, or rather made, his redemption. He got together with a group of musical friends, including Kaplan and Welch, who were at similar places in their careers, and founded the Dead Reckoning label. Now they make the music want to make, and find ways to sell enough to stay afloat. If this post helps, and if it means they will be able to make more music like this, then I am a happy man.

Submitted by Darius