Social D's last album Sex, Drugs, and Rock & Roll was released in 2004 which puts the band pretty much right on track for releasing new material every 7 years or so. If that strategy has proved anything it's concise albums with tight, catchy, road tested songs.
So what's Social D got in store for us this go round? Their latest single Machine Gun Blues is one indication. It's available on iTunes now but you can give it a preview here:
Social Distortion - Machine Gun Blues
Pretty much tried and true Social D, nothing wrong with that. But more shocking is California (Hustle & Flow) which reveals more than ever The Rolling Stones influence on Mike Ness. Not sure how I feel about this one, sounds like a Black Crowes outtake but points for branching out I guess.
Social Distortion - California (Hustle And Flow) by Epitaph Records
Also of note, Mike Ness steps into the role of Producer for the first time in his band's history and reveals a much slicker sound than any previous Social D album. Most will recognize "Road Zombie," "Diamond In The Rough," and "Bakersfield" from the bands live performances in recent years as well as "Can't Take It With You" complete with call and response soulful backup vocals. There's also a punked up cover of Hank Williams "Alone & Forsaken." Ness' and guitarist Johnny Two Bags country-fried influences are well apparent with no shortage of slow burning tales of heartbreak and pain to round out the album. All in all a new and interesting road for Social D to take that might have some long time fans scratching their heads.
The album is available January 18th in multiple versions: a limited edition double red vinyl release, a double black vinyl release, a regular edition CD and digi-download version, and a deluxe edition digi-download version via iTunes.
The deluxe iTunes release features 3 bonus tracks one of which is a tune called "I Can't Run No More." For many Social D fans it's something close to the holy grail, the song was performed only a few times on the bands 1997 tour and people have been begging for it to be released ever since. A live version has floated around for years but a studio version could very well make some people shit their pants, myself included.
So thanks Social D, I'll be buying your new record in triplicate - at least.
PHOTO CREDIT: I don't know who took the photo above but good job, that's a great pic. If it's yours and would like me to take it down just say so.
PHOTO CREDIT UPDATE: Wouldn't you know a photo as awesome as the one above would be taken by none other than Danny Clinch. I should've known.
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