B-Side Guys

Philadelphia’s folk quintet John Train offers a wry, twangy take on Jonathan Richman’s “Since She Started to Ride” in their newly digitized album “Cowboy Dreams.” This track showcases the band’s ability to infuse Americana with a touch of melancholy humor, creating a sound that’s as authentic as it is engaging.

The instrumentation is a masterclass in restrained folk arrangements. Gentle acoustic guitar strumming forms the backbone, while Mike Brenner’s dobro adds a layer of country authenticity. Bill Fergusson’s mandolin and Jay Ansill’s fiddle weave in and out, creating a textured soundscape that evokes dusty stables and sun-baked pastures.

Jon Houlon’s vocals carry the narrative with a perfect blend of bemusement and resignation. His delivery of lines like “She’s got a dark suntan starting right above her collar” paints a vivid picture of the song’s equine-obsessed subject. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “I don’t see her much since she started to ride,” captures the essence of a relationship changed by newfound passion.

Lyrically, the song is a playful exploration of how hobbies can become all-consuming. References to “wet saddle blankets” and cars “full of hay” illustrate the total transformation of the subject’s life. The clever use of horse-related terminology throughout adds depth for those in the know while remaining accessible to casual listeners.

The track’s structure, with its steady rhythm and repeated chorus, mimics the repetitive nature of horse training itself. This approach allows the band to build a sense of gentle frustration as the song progresses, mirroring the narrator’s feelings.

“Since She Started to Ride” stands as a testament to John Train’s ability to breathe new life into cover songs. By applying their signature folk-Americana style to Richman’s original, they’ve created a version that feels both familiar and fresh.

This track, newly available in digital format, serves as an excellent introduction to John Train’s “Cowboy Dreams” album. It showcases the band’s tight musicianship, Houlon’s emotive vocals, and their knack for storytelling through song. For fans of thoughtful, melodic folk with a country twang, “Since She Started to Ride” is a must-listen, proving that John Train remains a vital force in Philadelphia’s rich folk music scene.