Madison, Wisconsin seems to be putting out more than just Badgers these days. A number of fine bands have come out of the Cheese State of late,…More...
The Road Hammers is the creation of 2004 Canadian Country Music Association Male Vocalist of The Year Jason McCoy. Joined by Alberta’s Clayton Bellamy, bassist Chris Byrne, and a host of other veteran musicians, this five-piece churns out some kick-ass country rock with a twist of the blues that leans more towards Lynyrd Skynyrd and Steve Earle than mainstream Nashville. The disc hits the road running right from the title track and opener “Road Hammer,” with its catchy chorus and gritty guitars. From there, road travel - from its excitement to its ennui - is the theme that runs throughout the disc’s 14 tracks. Through these roadside reflections, the Road Hammers pay tribute to life on the road where truckers and touring musicians make their home. “Girl on the Billboard” is a fun, rollicking song about that “girl wearing nothing but a smile and a towel/ In the picture on the Billboard near the big old highway.” One of the other many highlights is a cover of the Americana tune “Heart with Four Wheel Drive,” co-written by songwriters Paul Thorn and Billy Maddux. The Road Hammers also cover Little Feat’s classic “Willin” by giving this tune a new musical lease with some heartfelt harmonies. While the gentle ballad “Call it a Day” longs for a day when this life on the road will be permanently kept at bay. Overall, this disc is the perfect soundtrack for a long ride when the white line of the highway is your only friend for days on end. www.theroadhammers.com
David McPherson
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