Although they are now based in L.A., these guys have the Southern rock thang down pat, from the name of the band, to the look (each have long hair, facial hair, and cowboy hats), to the songs themselves - the first two are “Louisiana Man” (not the Doug Kershaw hit) and “Shiner,” about moonshine production.
The whole picture would be too much if this were a mediocre band. But these guys truly rock.
Many times the best way to judge this type of group is by the slow songs, which are often filler. “Live”, though, features songs with consistently solid songwriting.
There are two versions of “Missin’ My Friends,” one live and one studio, with clever lyric versions for both Monticello and Los Angeles.
The rockers fit comfortably into the Southern boogie pattern. Gary Jeffries has a serious Southern attitude – seriously ready to party. John Andrews plays nice leads; he is particularly proficient on slide. Along with the other three band members, Chris Turbis (keyboards), Doug Richardson (bass), and T.C. Markle (drums), they are tight enough to make you think that they have been together for a long time.
The weakest songs might be the covers. “Green River/Susie Q” is not bad, but it just seems unnecessary to revive these old chestnuts. The same can be said of Bob Seger’s “Turn the Page,” which has virtually been killed off by Metallica.
I would sure go see these guys and have a few, or more than a few, Lone Stars, ‘cause this Alligator Stew not only has a real bite, but it tastes good too.
Web Site: http://www.alligatorstew.com/
- Dave Howell
