In keeping true to their word, the fabulous Atlanta band Drivin’ N’ Cryin’ has released their second EP in a series of four. Songs about Cars, Space and The Ramones is now out and this one has the band showcasing their punk/pop side. The band consists of Kevn Kinney (guitar), Tim Nielsen (bass), Sadler Vaden (guitar), and Dave V. Johnson (drums).
The EP opens with the rocker “Hot Wheels” which covers all the bases—like looking for hot girls and driving fast cars on hot summer nights—overall this one is the type of song that Drivin’ N’ Cryin’ does best. With the addition of Sadler Vaden on guitar the band has never sounded fresher. Sticking with the EP’s theme the second tune, “Acceleration,” does just that. From the first beat the band just keeps the pedal to the metal and doesn’t slow down “Goin’ ninety miles an hour in a thirty mile zone…Acceleration.”
Opening up with some fuzz and feedback, the next tune “Johnny Rides Shotgun” blasts out of the speakers. This one has a couple of “hey-ho” Ramones-style shout outs in the verse, and the driving guitars are straight out of power chord heaven ending with the Ramones line “We’re a happy family/ We’re a happy family/ We’re a happy family/ Me, mom and dad.” Like they did on the last EP (e.g. the song “REM”), they love to honor their musical heroes and, as usual, pull off a great tribute.
The song “Moonshot” is the band’s foray into space with a rocker that will get you moving and is full of the band’s signature sound. The mix on the EP is, again, spot on, and “Out Here In The Middle Of Nowhere” is a true punk classic featuring an appearance by none other than punk icon Cheetah Chrome (Dead Boys) who contributes rousing lead and background vocals delivered with typical punk angst being “out here in the middle of nowhere.” The closer shows another musical direction with the sci-fi-surf-instrumental “Space Eyes.” Overall this is another great EP leaving the listener waiting for more. The third one should be out soon—stay tuned.
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