Reviews

The Top of the World by 6 String Drag

Posted by on March 9, 2018 at 8:23 am


By Brian Rock

6 String Drag invites you to take a trip to The Top of the World on their third full length release. Playing pure, unadulterated Rock N Roll, the band seems blissfully unconcerned with fitting neatly into anyone else’s genre expectations. Their music is firmly rooted in the late-80s Athens, GA alt-rock scene, with hints of lush, Smithereens type melodies and a touch of Elvis Costello snarl. Discerning listeners will also pick up influences from Big Star and Bruce Springsteen.

The album starts with the buoyant, irresistibly catchy, “Never Turn My Back On You Again.” An ascending chord progression, hand claps, and even cowbell, make this a joyous, “can’t sit still when you hear it” rocker. The album’s final cut, “Robert & Lucy” is just as ebullient, with added touches of Hammond organ and a killer horn section. Another perfect example of melodic, high-octane rock and roll.

Every song in between is a gem in its own right. From the Don Dixon inspired “Every Time She Walks on By” to the Elvis Costello (in ballad mode) flavored “Be Like You” to the raucous “Small Town Punks” and the introspective title song, 6 String Drag delivers beautifully crafted “thinking man’s “ rock and roll.

To call this album Americana might be a bit of a stretch (although it does have faint echoes of The Waco Brothers and The Nickel Slots,) but it is prime American Rock N Roll, and if there’s no room for that on the radio, well it’s certainly welcome here.

6stringdrag.com  |  fb  |  buy

Brian Rock

Brian Rock

Brian was raised gypsy style, moving every other year until well after college. As friendships proved to be temporary, Brian found a constant companion in music, wearing the grooves off Beatles and Dylan albums before moving on to Lyle Lovett and Dwight Yokam. Living so often in flux, he has come to value music and lyrics of lasting quality. Not moved by trends or fashion, he is drawn to timeless lyrics and soulful rhythms. Although now settled down, Brian still expresses his gypsy spirit through his writing. He has co-written songs with musician friends he’s met along the way, including several contributions to the 2012 ICMA Album of the Year, Family Album. Brian also writes children’s books and poems, including the Children’s Book Council featured title, The Deductive Detective.
Brian Rock

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