Oliver Wood has released his second solo single, a cover of the classic protest anthem “The Battle Is Over (But The War Goes On” (listen/share). Premiered today via PopMatters and officially released across all streaming outlets tomorrow (Friday, September 4), the song can be purchased now at Bandcamp from which all proceeds will be donated to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
“I was introduced to ‘The Battle is Over’ through cover versions by the late greats Levon Helm, and Sean Costello. I always loved it, and when I heard the original version on the 1973 ‘Sonny and Brownie’ album by Sonny McGhee and Brownie Terry, I understood it on another level. It’s one of those songs made great by its ambiguity and emotion, and in the hands of Sonny and Brownie it feels like a protest song…at least that’s how I hear it. With all that’s going on today it felt inspiring to put this song out in the world again and help keep the momentum of a movement that really needs everyone’s help,” explains Oliver. “The recording was quick and dirty and a lot of fun. As with any cover, it’s cool to put your own spin on it and take liberties. Jano Rix co-produced the song with me. Inspired by that original ’70s sound, we recorded the basic tracks—guitar, drums and vocals—on Jano’s old TEAC 4 track tape machine. Later we added Ted Pecchio on bass and Phil Cook on harmonica and background vocals and voila.”
The release of “The Battle Is Over (But The War Goes On)” comes just two weeks after Oliver Wood shared his first ever solo single, “Soul Of This Town” (listen/share). One third of the treasured roots/Americana trio The Wood Brothers, Oliver is a testament to slow and steady wins the race. Born and raised in Boulder, Colorado, he relocated to Atlanta in his early twenties to pursue a career in music. Gaining a reputation over a ten year period as one of the premier working musicians on the local Georgia music scene, he was invited to join blues legend Tinsley Ellis’ road band. From there, Oliver would form his own group, King Johnson, who’d build a loyal regional following. When opening for his brother Chris Wood’s band, Medeski Martin & Wood, he was invited to sit in, which instantly reminded them of the deep musical bond they shared. Soon thereafter, The Wood Brothers were born. They’ve since gone onto to release seven studio albums, perform high profile shows from Red Rocks to Bonnaroo and earn a Grammy Award-nomination.
OLIVER WOOD || “THE BATTLE IS OVER (BUT THE WAR GOES ON”
Available Now On BANDCAMP || All Sales To Benefit The ACLU
