Rides On
New West, 2023
9/10
The Livingston Manor, New York rockers The Nude Party return with their 3rd album, and it’s an effort they produced themselves, which allowed them to take their time fleshing out 13 tunes in a studio barn in upstate New York.
“Word Gets Around” opens the listen with spirited electric guitar and thumping drums from Connor Mikita in the rugged yet tuneful retro-rock, and “Hard Times (All Around)” follows with a melodic breeziness alongside Alec Castillo’s bouncy bass lines and Patton MaGee’s distinct and playful voice.
Further along, the mesmerizing climate of “Cherry Red Boots” swirls with a nostalgic rock’n’roll appeal that’s dance floor ready, while the subtle twang and strong atmosphere of “Tree Of Love” flirts with psychedelic ideas.
Deeper yet, “Stately Prison Cell” welcomes Magee’s emotive harmonica and well timed backing vocals in the hazy, darker delivery, and “Red Rocket Ride” exits with a richly intimate finish that benefits much from Shaun Couture’s skilled guitar and Zachary Merrill’s animated keys.
The lack of pressure that came with this process allowed the band to pen some of their best work yet, and it’s a diverse and organic experience that further solidifies their position as one of the most interesting rock bands today.
Travels well with: The Bad Ends- The Power And The Glory; Boulevards- Electric Cowboy: Born In Carolina Mud