Red Moon Rising
Journeyman, 2024
10/10
Robert Jon & The Wreck have turned plenty of heads their way since their debut in 2011, and these 12 new, Southern Rock anthems bring a new member to an incredible 8th album.
“Stone Cold Killer” starts the listen with plenty of rugged, blues spirit, where Robert Jon Burrison’s powerful pipes are met with Andrew Espantman’s thumping drums, and “Trouble” follows with a bouncy and melodic spirit, as Warren Murrel’s precise bass suits the calm versus dense moments.
Moving into the middle, the rhythmic “Dragging Me Down” benefits much from new member Jake Abernathie’s well timed keys, while the playful “Help Yourself” puts Henry James’ (Schneekluth) spirited guitar and raw voice to good use for the rich blues landscape.
“Give Love” exits the formal album, and it radiates intimacy and grit, and, of the bonus tracks, “Hate To See You Go” is particularly harmonic, where all the players illustrate much skill and collaboration via the meticulous textures.
A dynamic and positive addition to their glowing catalog, the Orange county outfit mash timeless blues rock and raw Southern ideas in a way that few others could for this top notch effort.
Travels well with: Joanne Shaw Taylor- Heavy Soul; Steve Cropper & The Midnight Hour- Friendlytown