Over the last twenty years, it seems like there has been an absence of gritty, downright dirty heavy Rock-n-Roll. However, one constant in this rather thin period of time has been the Texas Hippie Coalition.
An act driven by heavy guitars, thick grooves, rough leading vocals, and straightforward lyrics; Texas Hippie Coalition is a tight band with a lot to offer. Always led by founding Vocalist Big Dad Ritch, while the lineup has had a list of changes through the years, the approach has not faltered. Last putting out an album in 2019 with High in the Saddle, in 2023, the Texans make their return with the new album The Name Lives On.
Released back on April 21st through MNRK Music Group, the album marks their first in four years. The band’s long span ever between studio albums, and the little extra time arguably did them good… because these new tracks seem quite inspired. Ten songs in total, The Name Lives On come on strong, heavy, and full of everything Hard Rock fans could ask for.
Looking back for a minute, Texas Hippie Coalition has really done a fine job of writing/recording music over the years, but this new collection honestly has a different feel. More driven, the tracks grab you by the throat and immediately pull you into a groove.
All of this in mind, it seems the lineup led by Big Dad Ritch, including Cord Pool on lead guitars, Nevada Romo on rhythm guitars, Larado Romo on bass guitar, and newest member, Joey Mandigo on drums is gelling exceptionally well together. The songs are tight, the guitar solos are perfectly executed/placed, and the tone of Big Dad Ritch’s voice is outstanding. This is pronounced on cuts like the outstanding lead single “Hell Hounds,” “I Come from the Dirt,” and unapologetic “Keep My Name Out of Your Mouth.” And for those looking for the more Southern Rock side of the band, there are also killer tunes like “Built for the Road,” “Hard Habit” (which recently had a must-see music video release), plus “License to Kill.”
Overall, The Name Lives On fills a gap in the Rock scene. What is that gap? It is one of fans yearning for something gritty, heavy, and emotionally driven with hints of Rock, Metal, Southern twang, and even some Blues. Furthermore, if you are someone who knows of Texas Hippie Coalition, but perhaps are not all too familiar with them, it is recommended to check out this record. At times reminiscent of classic Soil from the early 2000s, if you are a fan of this, HELLYEAH, or even Pantera, this album is for you! A bright spot in the world of Hard Rock in 2023, Cryptic Rock gives The Name Lives On 4 out of 5 stars.
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