About seven years ago, Matthew Paige and Zack Murphy staked the tent in the ground for what is now Nashville’s favorite purveyor of 60s-style rock n’ roll revival, otherwise known as Blackfoot Gypsies. On April 14th, the band will release their third album, To The Top, via Plowboy Records. Describing their sound as mere rock would be unjust—Blackfoot Gypsies also pull their sonic influences from country, blues, jazz, and folk. Oliver Horton (a.k.a. Ollie Dogg) on harmonica and Dylan Whitlow on bass cut deep grooves in their swampy jams.
Lead vocalist and guitarist Paige breaks down the rocking lifestyle in third track “Promise to Keep,” as he recounts the rewarding hardships of life on the road, yet still yearns for the home life. The good times roll in “Back To New Orleans,” with its backbeat swagger and second line parade-style horns, it calls to mind the spicy streets of the French Quarter where dancing is a must and movement is virtually involuntary.
Paige channels the lyrical and vocal spirits of Bob Dylan and the Fab Four themselves in “I Wanna be Famous,” while Ollie Dogg scorches on harmonica that weaves through and around searing guitar work and raucous Delta rock grooves to keep you moving and striving towards your next life goal. Grab a friend, grab a drink, and drown your love life sorrows in the simple message of late night rocker “Woman Woman.” Be forewarned ladies, no matter how hard you try, men just can’t be changed. The blues-heavy “Gypsy Queen” pushes her way into any smoke-filled club with Chuck Berry-esque guitar riffs, chugging harmonica, and an infectiously catchy rhythm. Clap your hands and stomp your feet while Ollie Dogg fills the track with head-bobbing notes straight out of Memphis.
On To The Top, Blackfoot Gypsies have compiled a set of boundary-defying songs that would make the likes of Mick Jagger, Janis Joplin, and George Thorogood proud. Not only will their dirty guitar licks and get- down-and-boogie festival-sized sound surely plaster a smile on your face and plant joy in your heart, they’re destined to skyrocket this band right to the top.
Purchase To The Top, set for release on April 14th via Plowboy Records: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/to-the-top/id1214639993
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This groovy review was written by Eo8’s resident jam band and blues rock expert, Rich Harley. To see more of his musings, stick around, it’s only the beginning.]
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