Customer Reviews

Buckshot

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I may be a little biased by saying that this album is one of the best I've heard in a long time (it was my perpetual soundtrack for an overnight roadtrip from Illinois to Mississippi) because the Riptones are some good old friends of mine from Chicago. This album has the excitement of rockabilly, the heart of country, and a bit of zesty surf thrown in for good measure. All of these different elements, combined with Jeb's smooth, sad crooning, make the perfect accompaniment for a rainy day, a long drive through the country, a party, or just hanging out. Did I mention they are probably the nicest guys I have ever met?

I saw the Riptones perform as the opening band for Los Straitjackets almost a year ago and happened to enjoy The Riptones more than the headliner. I bought "Buckshot" that night in hopes that it just wasn't the alcohol talking and that the band actually had talent. Well, they did. With exception to the widely agreed-upon sludge of their so-called ballad "Yvette," all the other songs show so much experience and deliberation. The Riptones don't give you too much by elaborating on guitar or bass solos, but leave much to how well they perform in concert. If I had to categorize the group I would have to say that they are a mixture of Brian Setzer, Queen, Dwight Yoakum, the Big Bopper, and The Ramones. I hope I didn't short change the group, but that's the impression I get after listening to the disc well over a hundred times! Please check out "Buckshot," it's guaranteed not to suck!

This record is a cross between Jr. Brown, Robert Gordon and early Commander Cody. I like the rawness of the production compared to modern radio country. It has a hybrid of new alternative country sounds and old country with a tinge of surf and blues, Very cool!