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West 78 - American Girl
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 West 78 is a power trio with energy to spare on their latest release “American Girl.” Right from the opening track “Walls & Barriers,” which has an infectious Keith Richards like riff weaving through it; these three guys really outdo themselves.
Lead singer Kerry Bell, with his quirky vocals, reminded me of a vintage 80’s David Byrne meets Elvis Costello.
Once you get past the self-imposed walls and barriers that we all put up, the “American Girl” becomes a reality inside the song, just look at the cover, there is the proof. Then if you’re lose enough “You Got To Deal” with the frenetic pace of the city streets and all the freaks you encounter. It is a wake up call to those not paying attention to life, the music serves as a call to arms for those of us that need to deal with real life situations whether we like it not. “Just Another Clown” has a weird cynicism to it because of the circus big top voice agitating at the opening of the track and at different points along the way. As usual, the music kicks ass totally. With the jangling rocking guitar of Brian Donaldson, the ultra funky bass lines courtesy of Prince Hatcher, and with the other half of the rhythm section, Butch Baron, spot on to push it all right along, you have a backbeat that completely energizes everyone. Donaldson really rocks on lead guitar, and he does it with an effortlessness and panache that many people would give up their right arm for. “Come On Over” slows things down to a ballad then ups the ante with sparkling and biting guitar riffs all the while asking the question-Why not come over with us for awhile to see our side of life through different eyes? The closer “Without You,” which is the national anthem, is a patriotic instrumental in tribute to our veterans that continually risk their lives to defend our nation. They also salute our heroes in the liner notes. I really appreciated that.
I found everything about this music to be irresistible, and you will too. Their rock ‘n’ roll motor never stops running on route West 78, and they do not stop for gas. This CD is a ride in the fast lane with a one-way ticket to rock heaven.
© Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck |
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