Everyone Everywhere
Self-Released, 2020
8/10
Even though the Asheville, North Carolina resident Andrew Scotchie isn’t even 30 yet, he plays like an old soul on this well executed EP where The River Rats help illuminate a charming brand of retro-rock where there’s no shortage of political/social wordplay.
“Stepping Stone” starts the listen percussion heavy with a playful, psychedelic groove where warm vocals steer a very memorable and funk friendly adventure, and “Human Too” continues the landscape with spirited guitar work and frisky bass work alongside a soulful appeal that’s difficult to forget, not that you’d want to.
The second half of the listen offers the swift and upbeat “Funny Money”, which bounces and glides with an immediately memorable delivery, while “Fear Mongers” dips into slower waters where subtle power resides amid the moody interplay and eloquent lyrics about capitalism. The title track exits the listen and is the highlight, as Scotchie and company brings strings and plenty of rhythm into a bluesy flavored finish.
A very relatable listen in terms of all the problems facing the US today, Scotchie brings sharp song craft and superb guitar playing to a nostalgic formula that we could never tire of, especially in his very capable hands.
Travels well with: Jon Stickley Trio- Make Believe; The Marcus King Band- The Marcus King Band