By Cyndi Ford

 

Smith's Olde Bar
Atlanta Georgia
8/1810


Some say that everything old is new again, when it comes to the newly revamped Bros this is a good thing. The founding members, David Piper and Ray Strickland decided after a long break from playing in a band, that they were ready to get their "boots" wet again. Both have been involved in the local Atlanta music scene together as producers and managers for many years.

David and Ray called on their old friends Joey Huffman to play keyboards and Jack Browning to play guitar. With David on bass, Ray on vocals and guitar only one thing was lacking, a drummer. They put out adds and interviewed, but when Dusty Edinger walked in after one look at his kit and a quick listen, they had the final part of the puzzle.

They had some original music they had worked on over the years, a few new ones, and threw in a couple of cover tunes and the set list was complete. After many hours of gruelling hot Georgia summer practices they were ready to rock Atlanta once again.

The day of the show had been set for more than a month, so my anticipation had plenty of time to grow. Smith's Olde Bar is one of the premier clubs to play in Atlanta, impressive for a first gig. I knew to expect some in your face, home grown kick ass southern rock; but as soon as these guys took the stage, I was blown away. They opened the show with "I've Been Better", which let the crowd know they were in for a helluva ride. It was impossible to determine who was the lead guitar player, at times they both were, letting Gibson and Fender do their fighting.

Before I knew it the floor was full and everyone was dancing around, seems you can't stand still when these guys are playing. Their second song, "Right Time, Wrong Thing," has a pounding beat, reminiscent of Steve Earl's "Copperhead Road". I mean it describes love like a "fast moving train," you can never miss with lyrics like that.

The cover of "Baby Please Don't Go," was the ultimate battle between these two duelling guitar masters. While they slowed things down with "Shame," an original that is a beautiful song that pulls at your heart. Dwight Yoakam's "Guitar Cadillac's" totally rocked, yet showed their country side.
 

One of their best originals was "Stop Dragging Me Down," it is one of those songs with that certain hook that you just can't help humming.

The closing number, "Dan Takes Five" is a fitting tribute to their long time friends and band-mates The Georgia Satellites. Rick Richards who added his signature slide guitar sound on the Gasoline Bros first recording, and sometimes makes a guest appearance at the shows. These guys definitely left you wanting more, one set was just not enough.

Each of the members of the Gasoline Bros brings their talent and expertise to the band. Joey Huffman's keyboards provides that extra touch, that comes screaming through in his solos. The spot on rhythm provided by David Pipers bass, and blasting beats from Dusty Edinger's drums, can only be completed by Ray Stickland's in your face rowdy vocals. Jack and Ray's back and forth banters on guitar is amazing. These guys are off to a great start to what I hope is a long ride.

They are headed into Jessie Dupree's studio in late August with Jeff Tomie as their producer. He has worked with The Smashing Pumpkins and Alice in Chains. The combination of this pairing should make for an epic album.

 

Cyndi

Soundcheck Rating

Check out Gasoline Bros  RIGHT HERE