The Long Ryders - High Noon Hymns

With the release of High Noon Hymns, The Long Ryders are back with their sixth full-length release, and third since getting back together in 2004 after a thirty-year break (with the exception of the occasional live show).  Like its predecessor, the band is comprised of Sid Griffin, Stephen McCarthy, Greg Sowders with McCarthy and Old 97s' Murry Hammond playing bass in place of the late Tom Stevens.  The album is another strong collection of country and roots rock with elements of psychedelia, jangly guitars, soul and even a bit of post-punk.  Opener “Four Winters Away,” is the first of several songs that address their dislike of the current political climate.  It’s a punchy, jangly rocker with a post punk edge and lyrics looking forward to when Trump is out of office.  “World Without Fear” takes a less specific view of the problems of society, dreaming of a world without fear, and is an easygoing midtempo track with some influence from The Byrds.  The next two tracks are back to a more pinpointed opinion on the state of the country.  Channeling a bit of The Rolling Stones, “Stand A Little Further In The Fire” is a rocker addressing the “Liar In Chief,” while “Ramona” is a more laid-back psychedelic, roots rock song criticizing ICE.  The remainder of the album largely moves away from the more political lyrics, starting with “(How How How) How Do You Wanna Be Loved?,” an extremely catchy, driving rocker.  More in line with classic, old school country, “Knoxville On The Line” is a gorgeous, laid-back, deeply emotional and introspective track.  With a guest appearance from X’s D.J. Bonebrake on vibes, “A Hymn For The City Of Angels” is another laid-back cut with a bit of a shuffle, that pays homage to Los Angeles, while “Down To The Well” is a solid, straight-on rootsy rocker and “Wanted Man In Arkansas” is a great, classic country ballad.  Drawing from eighties alt country, but giving it a modern day sound, “A Belief In Birds” is one of the album’s standouts.  Following the catchy, midtempo country rock of “Rain In Your Eyes” and the reflective, introspective “Say Goodbye To Crying,” they close the album with a fresh take on Dylan’s “Forever Young,” highlighted by Wyatt Ellis on mandolin.  High Noon Hymns is another perfect of example of how vital The Long Ryders were and still are.  

(Cherry Red Records)