Deep Fake
Feralette, 2022
9/10
The Nashville rockers Sour Ops return with another batch of their power-pop meets proto-punk tunes, where plenty of other genres enter what could possibly be their most diverse outing yet.
“Navy Blue” gets the listen off to a sonically charged and soulful version of power-pop, where frontman Price Harrison’s smooth vocals are complemented by thumping drums and well timed organ, and “Now You’re Gone” continues the creativity with a reflective tone that’s quite pretty and even welcomes strings for an orchestral slant.
At the halfway point, “More With Less” enlists Paul Niehaus on pedal steel for the Americana tinted cautiousness, while “What I Thought I Wanted”, one of the album’s best, then mixes some breezy folk ideas, gritty punk flavor and cozy roots sensibilities into a lush rocker that’s a bit dark lyrically.
Approaching the end, “Texas Punk 66” recruits plenty of sturdy riffs amid a charged energy that flirts with punk, and “Fall Into The Sky” exits the listen with no lack of power and melody as the players work together dynamically and memorably.
In addition to Harrison, Tony Frost plays bass and George Lilly sits behind the drum kit. There’s plenty of guests in attendance, too, and whether you’re a regular visitor or a first timer, Deep Fake has plenty to offer around the rock’n’roll spectrum, especially if bands like Wilco, The Replacements, The Kinks or Cheap Trick mean anything to you.
Travels well with: Jesse Malin- Outsiders; Alex Chilton- Boogie Shoes: Live On Beale Street