Reverend Horton Heat - Rev
The Reverend Horton Heat are a psychobilly trio from Texas. This band of hepcats have been keeping the spirit of rockabilly alive for almost 24 years, and have just released their Eleventh studio album REV.
It's been over 4 years since we last heard from this swinging rockabilly trio, but with a new record label under their belt (Victory Records) and the 'return' of drummer Scott Churilla, The Reverend Horton Heat are back, and as soon as you hear that blistering opening instrumental track "Victory Lap" finish, it becomes instantly clear that these guys are all revved up and ready to go!
The album begins to a booming start, as the band roar out three consecutive thunderous rocking tracks including the punk-fuelled "She Likes The Smell Of Gasoline" and the ridiculously pleasant horror-themed surf-instrumental "Zombie Dumb". The Reverend Horton Heat are definitely making a statement that they are back to making fast paced rock n roll songs after their toned down sound of country and roots on their previous album Laughin' and Cryin' With The Reverend Horton Heat .
The youthful cheeriness of a young rebel still remains with veteran frontman Jim Heath, who sings with such a delightful playfulness on tracks such as "Spooky Boots", "Mad Mad Heart" and the incredibly goofy lead-single "Let Me Teach You How To Eat" you are quickly drawn in with his good-natured charm. Jim Heath's guitar playing is also a key ingredient towards the album, which he skillfully manages to alter between punk, rockabilly and even some honky-tonk country on tracks such as "Hardscrabble Woman" and "Longest Gonest Woman".
Of course, it don't mean a thing, if it ain't got that swing. And that comes directly from the brilliant rhythm section, which consists of the energetic bass work of Jimbo Wallace and the sprightly agile work of stick man Scott Churilla. The rhythmic bond that these two share is executed pretty exquisitely on tracks such as "Schizoid", "Mad Mad Heart" and "My Hat" that it just completes the overall satisfying and entertaining feeling the listener will be left with at the end of this album
The return to a more straight ahead psychobilly sound has worked wonders for this Texas trio, as these guys have never sounded so good. This album does a terrific job of bringing out the bands genuine love for the music they play, along with an entertaining and fun side that is so pure that you can be sure that they had a great time creating this swinging rock n roll album.
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