The Long Haul
Self-Released, 2023
8/10
The guitarist and vocalist Mike Jacoby brings a band back into his formula, where Mike Levin and Don Read, plus others, are in attendance for these diverse 11 tracks.
“Right Off The Bat” opens the listen with plenty of energetic, retro rock’n’roll that showcases Lisa Jackert’s animated violin alongside Levin’s acrobatic drumming, and “Everybody I Know” follows with a warm melody and a bit of grit amid the harmonic backing vocals.
Deeper into the listen, the soft “She’s Funny That Way” bursts into a dynamic, roots rock appeal that makes great use of Read’s precise bass, while the punchy “Bend” highlights Art Bailey’s lively piano and immediately welcomes a sing-along.
Landing near the end, “Everything” carries a bit of a jangle amid the lush melodies, and the title track exits with some ruggedness buried in the dynamic and driving songwriting.
Jacoby’s revered brand of Americana and alt-country is always heartfelt, sincere, and sometimes even funny, as he makes a very enjoyable and timeless listen with The Long Haul.
Travels well with: Parker Ferrell- Love Runs Through; Ryan Traster- Low Mirada