Canada East Review of Old Mad Joy
The Gourds’ major-label debut Old Mad Joy is career fruition for these veteran Austin, Texas alternative country rockers.
Guitarist Kevin Russell and bassist Jimmy Smith split compositions and lead vocals down the middle. This hallmark of two distinctive and capable frontmen and singers has always given The Gourds a rich double-pronged attack.
Claude Bernard (keys), Keith Langford (drums), and multi-instrumentalist Max Johnston complete a tight quintet of men who play well and who have played together for years.
Released Tuesday, The Gourds’ 11th album in 14 years is a perfect union of talent at a pivotal career stage and the perfect producer and setting for that time. Old Mad Joy was cut in Levon Helm’s Woodstock, New York studio.