Most enjoyable.
Formed in Texas during 2014, The Drugstore Gypsies made an immediate impact in 2017 with their debut album that spawned the song 'Running To' which was streamed over seventy-five thousand times on Spotify. They were even named in 'Rolling Stone' magazine and listed as one of the Ten New Bands To Watch – no mean feat for a young group who play a mix of Country along with a healthy dose of unashamed, old-school Classic Rock.
The moment 'Never Settle' started, I knew this would be right up my street with a great riff and Duke Ryan's vocals both immediately impressing my ears. This high-tempo opener ticks all the boxes and 'The Rapture' keeps that momentum going with another uncomplicated riff and well put together chorus. 'Take It From Me' brings in a piano and goes for a more Barroom Blues meets Country feel, but the band sound just as at home in this style as they do on the no-frills foot tappers.
If I'm honest 'End Of The Show' didn't do a great deal for me as it meanders into power ballad territory, but the more rocking 'Bat City' is better. 'Let The Night' is lightweight Country Rock and it sounds like a deliberate attempt at a single, but Ryan's voice is suited to it and the harmonies on the chorus sound good, so the group get away with it. However, I do prefer the more pounding efforts and 'Lady Of The Night' fits that bill to a tee, plus it has a cowbell in it so you can't go wrong.
There's enough Classic Rock on tracks like 'Comin' Around' for people who like Bad Touch, Airbourne and bands of that ilk, but they also have enough of a Country infusion to give the group an extra element to stop them being another also-ran. Considering this is only their second release, I'll be following 'Rolling Stone' magazine's advice and keeping a close eye on them. I suggest our readers do the same because this is most enjoyable!
James Gaden