Customer Reviews

Back of Your Mind

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Perhaps it shouldn't be surprising that the Domino Kings third release is the most consistent of their career. It's not that acrimoniously departed bassist (and songwriter) Brian Capps wasn't an integral part of the Domino's sound, but with guitarist/vocalist Steve Newman responsible for the bulk of the new songs and singing, there's a greater sense of direction to the album. Newly recruited rhythm guitarist (and Newman cousin) Jimmy Ginnings chips in a trio of fine tunes (including the album's honky-tonk opener), making the album something of a family affair.

The revivalist air of their previous album ("Life & 20") has grown into a more organic presentation of their influences. There's plenty of twang, including the crying pedal steel of guest Johnny Neff (Star Room Boys) on the divorce-themed "No More Trying," the cheatin' tale "What Do You Do About the Ring on Your Finger," and a fine cover of Faron Young's 1969 hit, "Wine Me Up." The band's Bakersfield influences are heard throughout, especially in the singing and electric guitar picking of "In Case You Didn't Know," and David Wilson (Radio Flyer) adds his fiddle playing to "One More Chance."

But the band isn't just a one-note honky-tonk revival. They rev up a New Orleans shuffle on drummer Les Gallier's "Show Me," with producer Lou Whitney (Morells, Skeletons) supplying the bass and Newman the slinky lead lines. "The Outlaw's Song" waltzes from mandolins to electric guitars, and "Hard Thing To Know" has a syncopation and drama that brings to mind Gordon Lightfoot.

Personnel changes are a way of life for most bands, and for the Domino Kings the changes have brought a focus that's kick-started a fruitful new phase in their recording career.

I had the opportunity to hang out with these guys at Salmon Jam 2004, as volunteer driver and roadie. "Back of Your Mind" is one of my favorites, and a good sound check piece. We enjoyed having them in Cordova for three concerts in two nights, as another KCHU public radio volunteer and guitarist joined them to make a four piece combo. Stevie Newman and Les Gallier were joined by bassist Reed Herron (sp.?) for the Alaska trip. I'm waiting for their fourth CD, "Salmon Jam '04"! On the web: www.dominokings.com and www.kchu.org

I have to say I am not a honky tonk fan, but I really enjoyed this CD. Give it a listen and start your toe tappin'!

Nothing memorable about the melodies after 5 or 6 listenings. They've lost their honky tonk twang, which is a shame. The singing is kind of like irish folk singing - okay if you like it. I compiled the best of this album and Life & 20 onto one CD - only took two songs from this one.