Jerry Joseph and The Jackmormons Panther Tracks Vol. 2,
Jerry Joseph and The Jackmormons release Panther Tracks Vol. 2, the follow-up to last year’s Panther Tracks Vol. 1. The two albums are part of an intended series of four albums that offer studio recordings of the band’s popular live songs.
Talking about how the series began, Jerry Joseph explains, “A few years ago, Dave Schools and I were talking about a parallel universe where I was a big rock star and which songs would be my hits. If you asked my fans, many of those songs are only on live records — songs that never saw studio versions. So, we made a list of those songs and, with the momentum from Happy Book, our weekly virtual live show we started during Covid, we went into Steve Drizos’ studio, The Panther, and recorded them.”
Drummer Steve Drizos produced the album, which was recorded at his Portland studio, The Panther. Jerry Joseph and the Jackmormons comprise Jerry Joseph (guitar, vocals), Steven James Wright (bass), and Drizos (drums). Guest artists on the album include Jenny Conlee (piano, Wurlitzer), Eric Martinez (guitar, backing vocals), along with the Dimpker Brothers, Paul Brainard (pedal steel, trumpet), Little Sue Weaver (backing vocals), and Todd Wright.
“Frost Heaves” rolls out on cutting, platinum guitars reminiscent of Dickey Betts and a mid-tempo rhythm, resulting in an almost prog-rock-like melody with hints of Southern rock running through it. There’s also a Procol Harum-like organ that adds to the unique sonic signature of the track.
Tangs of folk-rock and country give “I Think I’m Here” a passionate feel. The vocals are vaguely suggestive of Tom Petty, which, along with the swaying melody, gives the tune a remote Golden Earring-like pulse. The myriad savors in this song make it both charming and alluring.
A dirty, smoldering guitar rides a tasty, not-quite-funky rhythm on “Soda Man.” There’s also an elegant, evocative piano that imbues the tune with glimmering tones. Shimmers of psychedelia infuse the tune with ‘60s kaleidoscopic colors.
Elements of punk and dirt rockabilly propel “Bright Young Thing” into a deliciously infectious soundscape. A fat bassline and lust-laced vocals elevate the song a couple of levels.
The last track on the album, “Pumpkin Time,” features feel-good energy and a rolling melody. Imagine The Band covering John Hiatt and you’ll have an idea of what this song sounds like.
Embracing a smorgasbord of styles, Jerry Joseph and The Jackmormons offer a worthwhile collection of songs on their new album.
Discover more about Jerry Joseph and The Jackmormons here.
Enjoy some of our previous coverage here: REVIEW: Jerry Joseph & The Jackmormons “Panther Tracks, Vol. 1”