Bonneville County Pine Box: Cracklin’ Fuego (Flak Records) Album Review
Reviewed by Harry Kaplan
Quality vs quantity is that age-old argument. Is it better to have more of something that is of lesser quality or a smaller amount of something that is triple A, prime? I vote for the latter. How does Bonneville County Pine Box (BCPB) fit into this debate? This is only their third album in 20 years, an average of almost 7 years between releases if you chart it mathematically. That isn’t a huge output, by anyone’s standards. But, patience is a virtue and good things come to those who wait. Insert cliché here. Even though a lot of time has elapsed between releases, it hasn’t impacted the final product in any negative way. Maybe, the extra time did the band good so they could really focus on all aspects of writing, playing, and recording. After giving Cracklin’ Fuego a few earnest listens, I conclude that the extra time reaped huge dividends.
All of the fellas in this country/rock and roll outfit clearly know their way around both a stage and the recording studio. They have more chemistry than Walter White in Breaking Bad. Yes, that’s a bold statement but these boys deliver. So let’s introduce the players: Jimi Teasdale – acoustic guitar and lead vocals; Dan Hughes – electric guitar, backing vocals; Jeff Farris – bass guitar, piano, backing vocals; Carey Bowman – pedal steel and lap steel; Doug Spinks – drums; and, Robbie Chance – banjo and mandolin, backing vocals.
They supply a very raucous and high-energy brand of country music that is perfectly suited for my ear drums. Definitely music that should be played loud and accompanied by many libations. There is an exception to every rule, and this is a case (talking about drinking) where quantity is more important than quality. In order for country music to be considered authentic, it is imperative that the theme of a portion of the songs relates to heartbreak and drinking. BCPB handles these themes with care and even combines the two themes on the first track entitled “2 X Wives.” The chorus commences with the following line – “I’ve got 2 X wives and I’m running out of beer.” Truer words may have never been spoken or sung, in this case. The song itself is a perfect beer-swilling anthem reminiscent of the classic “Up Against The Wall Redneck Mother.”
Another country music prerequisite that gives a band instant outlaw street cred is a train song. BCPB checked that box with “Stone Mountain Train.” Six plus minutes of country music bliss, this track is busting at the seams with pedal steel and banjo. It is a twang lover’s paradise. This song is an alumnus of the Sweethearts Of The Rodeo University. Yes, this is an advanced degree in all things Sweetheart. One thing that The Byrds did was have the pedal steel prominent throughout entire songs, and BCPB definitely learned from the masters. After the 30-second intro, the song displays more steel than a smelter in Pittsburgh, PA, courtesy of Carey Bowman. Jimi Teasdale’s vocals fit perfectly into this sonic tapestry, embodying the spirit and grit that true country music demands.
The instrumentation on Cracklin’ Fuego showcases not only impressive musicianship but also a sincere dedication to capturing authenticity. The rhythmic interplay between the guitars, the banjo, and the pedal steel creates an atmosphere that feels both celebratory and melancholic—an essential duality in the genre. Each track flows seamlessly into the next, making for an album experience that is not just a collection of songs but a cohesive journey through the highs and lows of life, love, and the occasional misstep.
Through their mastery and years of experience, BCPB has carved out a distinctive niche in the crowded landscape of country music. The band’s willingness to embrace classic themes while injecting their personality allows them to resonate with a diverse audience. Whether you’re kicking back at a bar or gathered around a bonfire, their music evokes a sense of camaraderie and celebration, reminding us that, sometimes, life’s best moments come with a cold beer, loud music, and a broom to sweep up all the broken pieces.
Listen and buy Cracklin’ Fuego here