Season 9 of the Emmy Award-winning series 'TrueSouth' is set to debut on SEC Network on September 15th, and it promises to be a captivating journey through the heart of Southern food and culture. This season, the crew takes us on a road trip across four states, exploring the rich tapestry of traditions and stories woven by the people and places they encounter. From the music-filled streets of Atlanta to the crawfish-filled ponds of Louisiana, each episode offers a unique glimpse into the soul of the South.
One of the most intriguing aspects of 'TrueSouth' is its ability to weave together seemingly disparate threads of culture and history. In the first episode, 'The Shoals, Ala.,' we learn how the music recording capital of the US was born from the power generated by the Wilson Dam. The story of Trowbridge's Ice Cream and Sandwich Shop, founded in 1918, is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Shoals. This episode is a reminder that the South is a place where history and tradition are deeply intertwined with the present.
In 'Arkansas Flyway,' we explore the duck hunting capital of the nation, Prairie County. Here, we meet Stanley Young and his wife Becky, who run Murry's Restaurant, famous for its fried catfish and bread pudding with whiskey sauce. The episode also showcases Big K Catfish Barn, a family-run business that has become a beloved fixture in the community. This episode is a celebration of the South's love for food and hospitality, and a reminder that the best restaurants are often the ones passed down through generations.
'Buford Highway, Atlanta' takes us on a journey through the vibrant and diverse community of Buford Highway. Here, we meet the Cuban restaurant Havana Sandwich Shop, which was arguably the first international restaurant on the highway. The episode also features Kamayan, a Filipino spot owned by Mia 'Amormia' Orino and Carolo Gan, and Gula, a family-owned Indonesia sweet café. This episode is a testament to the South's ability to embrace and celebrate diversity, and a reminder that the best restaurants are often the ones that reflect the community's cultural tapestry.
In 'Rayne, La.,' we explore the world of crawfish, a staple of the Louisiana cuisine. We meet the Arcenaux family, who have been serving crawfish at Hawk's Crawfish since 1983. The episode also features Jett's Crawfish Drive-Thru, a modern take on the traditional crawfish boil. This episode is a celebration of the South's love for food and innovation, and a reminder that the best restaurants are often the ones that embrace tradition while also pushing boundaries.
The behind-the-scenes episode, a viewer favorite, offers a glimpse into the creative process behind 'TrueSouth.' We meet Billy Reid, whose clothing is often worn by John T. Edge on screen, and Will Trapp, a principal in Single Lock Records, the Alabama label that has produced music for the show since season one. This episode is a reminder that the best stories are often the ones that are told from multiple perspectives, and a celebration of the South's rich cultural heritage.
In my opinion, 'TrueSouth' is more than just a series about food and culture. It's a celebration of the South's ability to embrace diversity, innovation, and tradition. It's a reminder that the best stories are often the ones that are told from multiple perspectives, and a testament to the power of storytelling to bring people together. So, if you're looking for a captivating journey through the heart of the South, be sure to tune in to 'TrueSouth' on SEC Network starting September 15th.
