Deep in the swamp lands of South Louisiana, in the small towns off State Highway 14, there are stories waiting to be told. There are ghosts to conjure up in the night fires and the bayou jamborees. Much like Johnny Cash captured the Arkansas of his childhood and Bruce Springsteen brought Asbury Park alive for millions, singer-songwriter Rod Melancon has introduced to listeners the stories of South Louisiana’s small towns and conflicted characters. The Daily Country raves that Melancon’s tales are “experiences personal and universal to one of Americana’s finest rising artists, destined to create his own legend and legacy.” The latest vehicle for Melancon’s intriguing storytelling is his five-song EP, LA 14, released in April via Blue Élan Records.

LA 14 is a preview of the full album to be released next year. With the help of producer Brian Whelan (Dwight Yoakam), Melancon has pushed his song-cycle into a swamp-tinged, country blend that moves out to the parameters of psychedelic-rock and deep southern blues. His songs here, while entirely original, echo the poetic soul of Guy Clark and Townes Van Zandt.