Brent Cobb and The Fixin’s Unleash Electric Energy with ‘Ain’t Rocked in a While’
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Brent Cobb has consistently carved a niche for himself in the country music landscape with his insightful storytelling and warm, Southern charm. Now, with his sixth studio album, ‘Ain’t Rocked in a While,’ set to drop on July 11th via Ol’ Buddy Records/Thirty Tigers, Cobb throws a delightful curveball. This isn’t just another collection of finely crafted country narratives; it’s a vibrant, live-wire testament to the raw energy of his band, The Fixin’s, and the classic rock influences that simmer beneath his Georgia drawl.
Produced by Cobb alongside Oran Thornton and recorded live to tape at The Black Palace in Springfield, MO, ‘Ain’t Rocked in a While’ captures the palpable excitement of a Brent Cobb & The Fixin’s show. Cobb himself acknowledges this intention, stating his desire for an “album of reference” that bridges the perceived gap between his singer-songwriter persona and the more rocking reality of his live performances. He succeeds admirably.
The album crackles with an immediacy often lost in meticulously overdubbed studio recordings. You can almost feel the sweat dripping from the stage, the amps humming with power, and the collective energy of the musicians feeding off each other. The Fixin’s – comprised of Len Clark on drums, Matt McDaniel on guitars, and Josh Williams on bass – are more than just backing musicians; they are integral to the album’s sonic identity. Their tight musicianship and shared energy elevate Cobb’s songwriting to a new level of dynamism.
The opening track, “Beyond Measure,” sets the tone immediately. While the lyrical content hints at Cobb’s familiar themes of love and appreciation, the driving rhythm section and McDaniel’s gritty guitar work inject a newfound urgency. It’s a confident opener that signals a shift in sonic approach.
The title track, “Ain’t Rocked in a While,” lives up to its name. It’s a swaggering, blues-infused rocker that wouldn’t sound out of place in a smoky bar. Cobb’s vocals possess a newfound edge, and the interplay between the guitar and the solid groove is infectious. This track serves as a clear statement of intent for the album.
“Bad Feelin’” delves into darker territory with a heavy, almost Black Sabbath-esque riff underpinning Cobb’s signature storytelling. The juxtaposition of the ominous musicality with his laid-back delivery creates a compelling tension. It’s a testament to his ability to blend seemingly disparate influences seamlessly.
The energy remains high with “Do It All the Time,” a driving track with a catchy chorus and a raw, unpolished feel. It’s the kind of song that’s tailor-made for a live audience, encouraging head-nodding and foot-stomping.
Even the more introspective moments on the album are imbued with a live energy. “Even If It’s Broke” retains Cobb’s lyrical depth, exploring themes of resilience and commitment, but the band’s presence adds a layer of intensity that wasn’t as prominent in his previous work.
“In Our Hands” offers a moment of reflection, a mid-tempo track with a hopeful message. However, even here, the organic interplay of the band members keeps the song grounded and engaging.
“Power Man” is a straight-up rocker, channeling the spirit of AC/DC with its driving beat and bluesy guitar licks. Cobb’s vocals are delivered with a newfound grit, showcasing a different facet of his vocal capabilities.
“Take Yer Meds” tackles a sensitive subject with honesty and a touch of dark humor, set against a backdrop of a slightly more laid-back but still compelling musical arrangement. The band provides a solid foundation for Cobb’s poignant lyrics.
“Til Dawn” closes the main set with a sense of weary but satisfied energy. It feels like the encore after a long, hard-rocking night. The guitars wail, the drums pound, and Cobb’s voice carries a sense of lived-in authenticity.
The album concludes with “Beyond Measure (Fixin’s),” a reprise of the opening track, but this time with an even more pronounced emphasis on the band’s instrumental prowess. It serves as a final reminder of the collective energy that defines this album.
‘Ain’t Rocked in a While’ is a refreshing and exciting addition to Brent Cobb’s discography. It’s not a complete departure from his country roots, but rather an organic expansion that incorporates the raw power and energy of classic rock. By capturing the essence of his live shows, Cobb, alongside The Fixin’s, has delivered an album that is both familiar and surprisingly new, proving that his storytelling prowess is only amplified by a healthy dose of rock and roll. This is an album that demands to be played loud and will undoubtedly leave audiences eager to catch Brent Cobb and The Fixin’s live on stage.
AIN’T ROCKED IN A WHILE TRACK LIST:
- Beyond Measure
- Ain’t Rocked in a While
- Bad Feelin’
- Do It All the Time
- Even If It’s Broke
- In Our Hands
- Power Man
- Take Yer Meds
- Til Dawn
- Beyond Measure (Fixin’s)