A little over three years on from the previous “American Band” (released in September 2016), the Drive-By Truckers lineup is back on the record scene with their new album, “The Unraveling” (officially released 31 January 2020).
Dominated by the overwhelming creativity of Patterson Hood (who lays claim to seven of a total of nine tracks on the album, with the remaining two, “Slow Ride Argument” and “Grievance Merchants” being composed by guitarist Mike Cooley), “The Unraveling” is soaked in a rock feel that is consistent, sometimes biting, and always free of unnecessary frills, with lyrics that delve into the often-brutal and painful situations that contemporary society presents us with.
Together with the aforementioned Patterson Hood and Mike Cooley (both on guitar and vocals), Brad Morgan (drums), Jay Gonzalez (keyboard, guitar and vocals), and Matt Patton (bass and vocals) complete the band. They’re joined by guest musicians Kyleen King (viola), Patti King (violin) and Cody Dickinson (electric washboard).
The album was recorded in Memphis at Sam Phillips’ “historic” recording studios with the help of producer David Barde, a former member of bands such as Mercyland, Sugar (Bob Mould’s band) and Buzz Hungry, as well as creator of solo album “Comet Of The Season” (2001) and producer of records by Harvey Milk, Son Volt, Kelly Hogan, and others.