I'm not kidding about that hero thing; as attentive readers are doubtless aware, Boyd was/is the once-and-future(?) bass player of the incredible White Animals...
...a Nashville band who absolutely ruled the college alt-rock/frat party scene down South in the 80s, and who made amazing albums that -- for reasons that remain mysterious -- somehow never garnered them the national attention they so richly deserved. I've written about them on numerous occasions over the years, so rather than rehash the details I'll simply direct you to this pertinent LINK; let me just say, however, that the Animals -- for whom Boyd was one of two principal songwriters -- were one of the most astounding live acts of their day, and that any band who stared the stage with them (and I know this from personal experience) did so at their peril.
In any event, King of the Loners -- which leans more towards Americana and classic rock than the pop/punk/dub reggae fusion pioneered by the Animals -- features thirteen fab new songs exploring the themes of personal freedon, loss resilience and reinvention. Adding to the fun, the great Will Kimbrough, of Bis-Quits fame, also contibutes characteristically memorable guitar stuff on a couple of songs, which is otherwise essentially a one-man show.
I should add that if you happen to be in Nashville this coming Saturday (Nov. 8), you won't, alas, be able to see Boyd with the Animals at their sold out farewell show at the legendary Exit/In. But I'll be there -- in spirit -- and I'll tell the guys hello for you. 😎
I should also add that the album will be available on iTunes, Spotify, and all other major streaming platforms, so get over there pronto starting a week from Friday!!! 😎😎

5 comments:
What a lucky break it was to have been on the same bill with you, Steve, and your Floor Models bandmates for our shows at Kenny’s Castaways there on Bleeker St. We were in awe of New York (still are) and expected a tough reception but received nothing but support and good vibes. I greatly appreciate all the kind words and turn-ons over the years, Sb.
My pleasure, pal. Love the new record.....
And knock 'em dead on Saturday!!! 😎 😎 😎
A song about the American Way!
Captain Al
The song made me think of the excellent book, Cadillac Desert, which details a lot of the nonsense that went on in the 20th century American west. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cadillac_Desert. One could also watch Chinatown again…
- Paul in DK
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