I'm trying really hard to figure out how I want to start this review. Let's just say that Hot Rod Deluxe, the sophomore album from Ruby Joe, is a hybrid between the fun, danceable sounds of rockabilly, and strong Christian lyrics (though some of the songs are about love and family, as well). Usually, a band's sophomore record is a bit weaker than their debut; however, I find Hot Rod Deluxe much more satisfying than Sinking the Eightball. Eightball seemed intent on mixing punk with rockabilly, which is a fun mix, but hard to pull off and rather overbearing at times.
This album, however, focuses more on rockabilly, which still retains a heavier sound, but works much better overall than the first CD. Greg Russinger's vocals are much easier to hear, and the guitar solos are more often and more enjoyable. "Foo Foo Flirt" features the horn section from Royal Crown Revue and offers a bit more of a swing sound, obviously. "Self-Righteous Stomp" is a wonderfully infectious instrumental that makes me wish I could dance. The only mellow song is "Little Angel," a song written by a father to his daughter. I like it better then "Butterfly Kisses," myself.
All over this record, the discerning listener will hear the influences of Chuck Berry, Carl Perkins, Elvis, the Stray Cats, and the piano stylings of Jerry Lee Lewis, but this album shows a lot of creativity, too; it isn't just another "hey, here's a bandwagon we can jump on" record. These guys and gals are true blue rockabilly to the bone.
4/5
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 1999Reviewed by Shari LloydFans of the Stray Cats, Rev. Horton Heat, The W's, This Train, or Big Bad Voodoo Daddy sit up and take notice. There's another rockabilly Christian swing band for your toe-tapping pleasure--Ruby Joe. The band was formed on Huntington Beach pier, in Ruby's diner in 1997 because of their common love for true rock and roll--50's style. Hot Rod Deluxe is the band's second release. The songs feature…Similar sounding releases
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