Gary Dranow and the Manic Emotions portrays the hardships of life in a small Ohio town caused by the coal power plant in his latest release, “Black Coal Lung.” Told like a story with brooding progression, the song sheds light on the dire situation of the communities that live similarly destructive lives.
Led by Gary Dranow, a multi-talented artist serving as composer, writer, lyricist, and guitarist, along with his bandmates Chris Zoupa, Jason Jones, and Roman Burda, “Black Coal Lung” creates a powerful sonic landscape that captures the urgency of the situation.
From the opening notes, “Black Coal Lung” immerses us in a world of melancholy and misery, with the haunting wail of the harmonica evoking a bittersweet ominous dread. The guitar chords chime in with a steely determination, while the well-paced beats provide a steady heartbeat beneath the music’s surface. A gnarled electric guitar solo in the bridge drives home the message with visceral force. The haunting instrumentals come together to portray the dreary lives in Ohio.
Jones’ deep, grainy vocals sing in a low register and bring gravitas to the music, conveying the seriousness of the subject matter. His voice rises with emotion in the chorus, capturing the anguish and determination of those fighting for justice and change.
Lyrically, “Black Coal Lung” depicts the community’s struggles, from the hazardous work conditions to the pervasive impact of respiratory illnesses caused by coal emissions. The imagery starkly highlights the cost of industrial pollution and the urgent need for environmental justice.
As you continue with your lives, listen to “Black Coal Lung” by Gary Dranow to remind yourselves of the many communities made vulnerable by being imposed with environmental negligence.
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Photo Credit: Time Punk Pet Photography / Dr. Liz Dranow
Review By: Naomi Joan