I have to say that THE REDNECK ROLEMODELS is a great name for a Southern Rock band, but I believe this name might have better suited a more specious, less talented band than this group of gifted young men.

The record begins with a tune called CUSTER. This is a fast paced, driving song that mixes great moments in history with the moment, to quote: "When I saw you." If one were to listen to this song and then skip to track five, CHICKEN'S ON FIRE, one might assume that this is a light hearted band that has a talent for funny, entertaining little country ditties.

But there is much, much more to the Redneck Rolemodels, both the band and the CD of the same name. From LOST ON ME, a song about the frustration of trying to make sense of the lives we lead, to JUNK, a song about the ultimate addiction, it doesn't take long to realize that this band has a lot to say, some of it maybe not so nice, but it needs to be said. What is confusing to this writer is the dichotomy of the band's name and image compared to the extraordinary songs that appear on this record. It's almost as if they are reluctant to prepare the perspective listener for the depth and passion of their music. There are many bands that refuse to take themselves seriously, but few of those bands have the talent that is contained in this recording.
Don't get me wrong, Custer and Chicken's On Fire are both great songs, full of energy and whimsical lyrics, but the short, accustic beauty of LIVIN' AFTER LOVE IS GONE is, in itself, worth the price of the CD. Like many of the other tunes, it defines emotions that we've all experienced and there is comfort in knowing that someone else understands what we are feeling.

While the band's excellent rhythm section is instantly recognized, the quality of Rich Logan's vocals and John Perez's lead guitar seem to get better and better as the listener goes deeper into the record. Rich's voice is gritty, powerful and steeped with emotion. John Perez plays his axe as well as any southern rock guitarist that I can think of--and that includes Dicky Betts.

This CD is expertly recorded and mixed by John Perez at Audioworks Recording in Glendale, California. I recently saw THE REDNECK ROLEMODELS perform (see Live review in this issue of SBM) and was told that a new CD is in the works. I can hardly wait. THE REDNECK ROLEMODELS CD is available on MP3.
Website:http://www.mp3.com/redneckrolemodels