The Liquor Union mixes a potent musical cocktail of influences-Creedence, Kiss, Gibbons, Cooder-and blends sardonic songwriting with tastefully distilled rock and roll.

12 MP3 Songs
ROCK: Americana, COUNTRY: Country Rock



Details:
Portland Oregon's The Liquor Union was formed around the partnership of, and resulting chemical reaction between, the prolific songwriting talents of Matt Johnson and the expressive, fluid guitar and lap-steel of Chet Chavez. With the addition of Charlie Watts-solid (and thirsty) drummer Michael McCurdy, the bar was now open. Having played under the name Perry Combover at the turn of the century, they have filled venues throughout the city. Now, The Liquor Union finally provides a full-length release.

12 tracks about love, hate, angst, pills and finger-pointing fill a debut that goes down smooth and leaves a grainy little itch in the spine. Matt Johnson's unique vocal stylings complement his songwriting with a hint of bitters. Guitarist Chet Chavez captivating playmanship has been compared to the master David Lindley. Channeling both Billy Preston and Benmont Tench, seasoned Portland keyboardist Brad Haskins appears on the album as well, banging the Hammond and piano on several tracks.

This self-titled release blends a potent musical cocktail of influences-Creedence, Kiss, Billy Gibbons, Ry Cooder-with sardonic songwriting and tastefully distilled rock and roll. Chavez's burning lap-steel and bottle-neck slide guitar mix well with Johnson's wry, jeering lyrics and repulsive honesty.

Matt Johnson, vox/guitar; Chet Chavez, guitars; Mike McCurdy, drums; Sean Hudson, bass; Jim Baker, hand drums; Adam Rohosy, all additionals.