Rock and Roll Americana
I'll cut to the chase. The best song on Lean Forward is "Nothin' But a Driver" (purchase/download). With its percussive rhythm that calls to mind "The Hand Jive," its engine-revving guitar solos, old school rock-style rhythm guitars, and narrative lyrics about cars...what could be more quintessentially Americana?Stylistically, as usual, the Rockets cover all their bases on this record. "Kid Next Door" (purchase/download) is a moving tribute to the troops, mourning the death of a neighbor at war. "Way It Used to Be" (purchase/download) is a straight-up rock and roll song, complete with driving drum part and ripping guitar solo. Then there's "Get On the Bus" (purhcase/download), with its honky tonk piano and accordion"; it's a lot more Americana-flavored swamp-pop, calling to mind some of the Dead's more extensive jams. The end of the tune turns a little Cajun, making it one of the most swimmingly versatile tunes on the disc.
The Bottom Line
Whether you've been a fan of the Bottle Rockets for years, or are seeking to expand the alt-country and Americana end of your record collection, the Bottle Rockets' Lean Forward would be a fitting addition. Traditionalist folk fans, however, may be turned off by the band's unabashed tendency to rock out whenever possible. Still, the guitar solos - as hard as they rip - are tasteful and full of well-architectured build. Lyrics stick to the basics: cars, women, loneliness, and the importance of sticking together.As the title would have it, even if you feel alone, lean forward. The Bottle Rockets will catch you. And then they'll take you wherever you need to go for a full time.
