Shinglers: Hit The Head! Album Review

Reviewed by Harry Kaplan

A fine release from Shinglers who hail from Austin, Texas. And it’s Shinglers, no “the.” Clearly, these fellas are very well-schooled in Texas country, rock, and blues music. All the boxes are checked: great vocals, pitch-perfect harmonies, and twang out the wazoo. You can definitely hear very strong flavors of Roy Orbison and Doug Sahm, as well as other Texas music dignitaries. Additionally, there is a strong swig of Tejano music that runs through this album like a main circuit cable, giving it a rich and diverse flavor that pays homage to the region’s musical heritage.

They don’t waste any time getting started and get right into the country rock with the opening track, Bayou Queens, which is a melding of country rock and honky tonk, as evidenced by the contemporary guitar and the wailing of the pedal steel. Both instruments provide a perfect nesting ground for the outstanding vocals and harmonies that Shinglers deliver with aplomb. The energy in “Bayou Queens” captures the imagination, drawing listeners into the vibrant world of Texas music and setting the tone for what is to follow.

Don’t worry, because Shinglers don’t stray too far from their honky tonk roots. You can hear a perfect representative of this genre in One More Shot Of Torada. They kill at least two birds with one stone: you got your drinking song wrapped up tightly in a gorgeous classic country package with a honky tonk ribbon. This song showcases their incredible musicianship, especially highlighting the pedal steel skills that elevate the track. It’s the kind of song that conjures images of a lively barroom, where cheap tequila is flowing in abundance and the pressure to keep drinking is almost overwhelming.

Roy Orbison was mentioned, so it would only be proper to back that statement up with some facts. Love Gone Bad is definitely a nod to the Vernon, Texas native. Everything about this song just screams Orbison, from the vocal stylings to the sad musical backdrop. The themes of heartbreak and despair resonate deeply, making it an emotional centerpiece of the album. The instrumentation complements the poignant lyrics, weaving a tapestry of sound that perfectly encapsulates the essence of loss and longing.

In conclusion, Shinglers know their way around traditional and honky tonk numbers perfectly but are also able to inject their modern brand of country music that will appeal to both traditionalists as well as those who feel a little bit adventurous. They skillfully blend the old with the new, creating a sound that feels both timeless and fresh. This musical journey through their album, with its compelling storytelling and masterful musicianship, situates Shinglers firmly in the landscape of Texas music, ensuring that their musical offerings will resonate with a vast audience, bridging generations and genres alike.

Listen and buy Hit The Head! here