The Nickel Slots bring their DIY attitude and work ethic to their
third full length release. “Let It Ride” is a perfect blend of Alt Country and
Alt Rock. Part Old 97s, part Warren Zevon, the Nickel Slots champion the
independent spirit of many of the best musical mavericks from both Country and
Rock.
The self-titled lead track begins with a great, crunchy
guitar riff and pounding drums. Singing, “Five o’clock shadow in a smoky room,
I’ve got a cocktail on the way so let it ride,” the band begins this musical
ride with punch and power. And once they start, they never let off the gas.
“One Foot in the Gutter” keeps the uptempo pace rolling, but
this time with a more Country feel – like Dwight Yokam on speed. “On the Wall”
is another great, rockin’ song with a fun sing along (drink along) chorus. They
add a touch of Irish folk-punk on “Dry Town.” Then they finish up with the
blistering Outlaw Country number “Club Rendezvous.”
In between there are irresistible grooves and melodies at
every turn. It’s one of those albums that’s impossible to listen to without
moving your feet and tapping your toes. And even when they downshift on songs
like, “Hush,” they still bring a sense of power through the strong vocals and
lyrics. They sing, “Hold on to the sounds, hold on to the noise, ‘cause bones
turn to dust and doubt it destroys. And landfills are chock full of old
memories. Everybody must live through the silence. Everybody must cope with the
hush.” There’s no sentimentality. There’s no regret or longing for the past.
Through the characters that populate their songs, there’s just the sense that
sometimes life brings rainbows, sometimes it just brings rain. Either way, life
goes on and the best you can do is make the most of the hand your dealt and
just Let It Ride.
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