Sans horns, the Rockets boldly revamp their previous sound, pushing further into rowdy rockabilly territory and away from swing. The new songs retain the signature bass, guitar, and drum core, yet expand their sound with unexpected but pleasant piano flourishes, among other surprise passementerie.
Under the tutelage of the late, great Gene Eugene (Producer Extraordinaire), the Rockets have successfully made the transition into a more streamlined rock and roll unit, while retaining much of the raw energy, wit and overall enthusiasm of their previous work. The result, Green Room Blues, is a more mature and eclectic effort. Considerable attention was paid to creating songs, not just full-throttle jams, and it shows here in a tight, diverse collection. Over all, their heed to songcraft was not only a step in the right direction, it's one that proves the Deluxtone Rockets have staying power beyond the one-hit wonders of the ACM world.
3.5 tocks
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 2001Reviewed by Michial FarmerWith the swing fad thankfully over and their horn section gone for good, Green Room Blues finds The Deluxtone Rockets pursuing a more rockabilly-oriented direction. Several tracks bring to mind Wreck Your Life-era Old 97s, while others recall nothing so much as Johnny Cash-lite. Only the closer, "Judgment Day," recalls the swing Rockets of old, and even it, with the absence of horns, doesn't…The Phantom Tollbooth 2001Reviewed by Eric DaamsThe Deluxtone Rockets have returned two years after their energetic, self titled party album which, to me, was one of the major highlights of the swing/ska revival. They've returned, but not the same. They've gone from six-piece to four piece, having abandoned their three piece horn section completely. Two new members, Rodney (from the Calicoes) on drums and Lonnie with the fretboard, join lead…The Phantom Tollbooth 2001Reviewed by Chelsea LewisThe Deluxtone Rockets have adopted a new sound on Green Room Blues, with more rockabilly and less swing. With no horn section, the band sounds different and their lyrics have taken a great leap from their debut. In addition to a new sound, the band has two new members and although they are still called the Deluxtone Rockets, they seem to be a new group. Overall, the songs are enjoyable, but…Similar sounding releases
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