Texcentric
Two Fisted Pixie, 2023
8/10
The long running guitarist Marina Rocks pays homage to her birthplace with these 4 covers and 2 originals that welcome Alex Rodriguez, Aden Bubeck, Lloyd Maines and Pat Manske.
“Drummin’ Down” opens the listen with Rocks’ distinct voice alongside warm guitar and Rodriguez’s playful bass in the upbeat, rootsy appeal, and “Willie Hole” follows with Maines handling dobro for the rich textures of the unique folk-rock.
Halfway through, “Walking On Water”, a R.W. Boyd tune, benefits from Manske’s skilled drumming amid the cautious, poetic landscape, while “Nameless” is full of spirited guitar and dusty melodies that showcase Rocks’ impressive range. The other cover, Townes Van Zandt’s “If I Needed You”, arrives near the end, and is full of lush and expressive textures.
Rocks handles vocals, Godin guitar, Fender Strat, drums and keyboards, and together with the excellent musicians at her side, she pens a powerful, diverse and sometimes anthemic quick listen.
Travels well with: Marina Rocks- Austin To Houston; David Newbould- Sin & Redemption