Oakland’s celebrated R&B, Soul, and Alt-Country fusion group Idiot Grins has dropped their fifth studio album, “Hounds of Mess Around,” on March 9, 2024. This new release is a burst of exuberant energy, marked by its upbeat rhythms and carefree vibe. The band, now comfortably settled into their musical identity, explores new sounds with a sense of adventurous optimism.
Known for their innovative spirit, Idiot Grins has never shied away from creative risks. Despite a COVID-19 setback during the initial recording sessions, the band managed to complete the album over the course of a laid-back year, bringing us their latest full-length offering with all the verve and vitality we’ve come to expect.
Stream “Hounds of Mess Around” on Spotify.
“Hounds of Mess Around” Tracklist
This album has the following 11 tracks:
- Reunite
- PA Mining Town
- She Looks That Way
- Not Reggae
- Peaches
- Island
- Love Drunk
- Wahoo
- Ded Zep
- Haiku
- Our Lady of the Divine Light Fixture
The album kicks off with the electrifying “Reunite,” a track that sets the tone for the energetic journey ahead. Its dazzling suaveness is driven by a lively fusion of horns, brass, and organs, creating a rich, soulful country vibe. The spirited vocals add to the track’s vibrant energy, building towards a delectable guitar solo around the two-minute mark, evoking a style reminiscent of Mayer Hawthorne.
Following the album’s opening track, “PA Mining Town” continues with the same lively, spirited momentum. This vibrant pace is driven by Idiot Grins’ drummer, Michael Melgoza, whose intricate rhythms establish the upbeat vibe that energizes the vocals and instrumentation.
“She Looks That Way” is a retro-infused track that channels the essence of ’60s rock while incorporating soulful elements. The song features vibrant horns that add rich, braying textures, complemented by smooth, accessible vocals and luminous harmonies.Top of Form
The lead single, “Not Reggae,” has achieved notable success, reaching #3 on the Digital Radio Tracker Independent chart and #30 on the Rock chart as of May 30, 2024. The track blends a cinematic mystique with ’70s-inspired brass, culminating in a captivating hook that evokes a sense of “burning down.”
“Not Reggae” Official Music Video:
“Peaches” evokes the essence of Chicago with its rich blend of smooth brass textures and flowing harmonics. The track features velvety vocal harmonies that are both fluid and subtly radiant, enhanced by the track’s elegantly smooth brass maneuvering.
The sixth track, “Islands” channels the charm of Elvis Costello with its bouncy keys and organ-driven infusions. The song’s vibrant energy and upbeat instrumentation, particularly its electronic synths, bring to mind the infectious creativity and pizzazz of the Talking Heads. Overall, “Islands” highlights Idiot Grins’ inventive spirit and musical flair.
“Love Drunk” has an alt-country feel with a light, bouncy rhythm complemented by the indulgent shimmer of glimmering keyboards, while “Wahoo” is melodious and catchy.
“Ded Zep” is an irresistible track with evocative imagery and deep melancholy. The track beautifully embraces the warm traditions of folk, making it an utterly captivating experience.
“Haiku” rolls along with a brass-infused melody that blends country guitar with subtle psych-rock elements.
The album concludes with “Our Lady of the Divine Light Fixture.” This track evokes the country-folk-rock vibe with its soulful, twangy vocals complemented by a glowing organ.
Idiot Grins’ Hounds of Mess Around delights with its catchy melodies, rich vocal harmonies, and heartfelt lyrics. The album blends psychedelic soul, deep R&B, and twangy country into a carefree, optimistic sound, showcasing the band’s evolved style and legendary storytelling.
More Info About Idiot Grins and “Hounds of Mess Around”
Idiot Grins, a Rock and Soul band from Oakland, California, has released five albums to date. Their debut, Quarry (2012), was followed by Big Man (2015), and State of Health (2017).
Big Man received praise for its blend of vintage Stax sounds and modern twists, with Elmore Magazine and Big Takeover highlighting its soulful charm. Their collaboration with the Byrd Sisters on “State of Health” yielded hits like “Get Busy Dying” and “Take it Back,” both of which climbed the digital radio charts.
Perhaps their boldest move came with 2020’s “Thoughts & Prayers,” a daring reimagining of the Louvin Brothers’ provocative 1959 album “Satan is Real.” The album, which includes covers of “Satan is Real” and “The Christian Life,” has been noted by Obscure Sound for its passionate vocals and a straightforward blend of guitar, bass, piano, and drums, appealing to fans of roots and Americana music.
With their fifth album “Hounds of Mess Around,” the band has refined their unique sound, blending danceable grooves with a rich array of complementary instruments. This album is ideal for a road trip or simply relaxing with a cold drink.
Here are some quick links to help you learn more about Idiot Grins and their work:
* Official Website * Facebook * Twitter * Spotify * YouTube Channel
