The
Doughboys – Shakin’ Our Souls (Ram Records)
The Doughboys third studio album since their comeback
– they split in 1966 and reformed in 2000 – is a bonafide rocker. The quartet
of Myke Scavone (lead vocals, harp), Richard X. Heyman (drums, vocals), Mike
Caruso (bass, vocals) and Gar Francis (guitar, vocals) shoot out of traps,
guitars blazing, and seemingly eager to make up for the lost years. Not that
the individuals involved spent 34 years sitting on their hands wondering what
might have been. All four members carved out interesting music careers in the
intervening years, from playing with Jimi Hendrix and fronting Ram Jam to
acclaimed solo recordings and premier session work. There second album “Act
Your Rage” won them worldwide acclaim and “Shakin’ Our Souls” should cement
their new found rep.
So, it’s a rock record for sure, but one that’s fixed
firmly in their New Jersey garage roots. Big and soulful, it fizzes with punk
energy, but these four are no naïve spike-topped teenage strummers and biscuit
tin bangers. They know exactly what they’re up to and the songs are constructed
and arranged for maximum impact and instant thrills. Opener “Land” sets the
tone. The band is on fire from the start and the track swaggers out the
speakers like a power pop Steppenwolf in a hurry to get somewhere. “Rush On You”
hits the pavement on a walking bass line – the swagger is no less defined – and
the title track mixes up their Stones, Faces, ‘60s pop / ‘70s rock influences
to fine effect. It’s no surprise to hear that Little Steven has already chosen
a track from “Shakin’ Our Souls” for his Underground Garage “Coolest Song in
the World” gong – just like he did for “Act Your Rage”.
Phil S.
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