Drive-By Truckers - English Oceans

Drive-By Truckers
English Oceans
2014

Drive-By Truckers give me hope. When I listen to modern popular country music it makes me cringe. Hearing about trucks, short shorts and everyone's favorite brand of shitty beer in two words: fucking sucks. It's uninspired propaganda that celebrates blind following and a false sense of independence. But then, there is Drive-By Truckers, holding the torch of what country music could and should be. They are the bastion of hope, keeping the torch lit of what country music once was, independent, unapologetic, forward thinking and truly American. "English Oceans" is in no way their best album. Roster changes (only two original members remain), constant touring and the sands of time have taken their toll on the Truckers, but "English Oceans" is still better than a great deal of what is out there.

The Album does have its flaws. Patterson Hood and Mike Cooley share vocal duties throughout the album, and if I'm honest it makes me pine for a reunion between Jason Isbell and the Truckers, bring back the "Southern Rock Opera" days. Cooley's vocals are just rough, the songs are well written, but its hard to get around them. Grand Canyon written for a fallen friend of the Truckers is an absolute eight minute revelation, and is just a taste of what the Truckers can be. I've included a video from one of their older songs Goddamn Lonely Love (written and sung by Jason Isbell) and if you haven't heard it I really suggest giving it a spin. You won't regret it.

Long story short, listen to the Drive-By Truckers.

6.9 out of 10 Stars