Brent Cobb & The Fixin’s Dig Deep with “Even If It’s Broke” and a Rock-Infused Return
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Brent Cobb has always been a storyteller, a Georgia native weaving narratives of Southern life with a disarming drawl and an undeniable authenticity. But for those who’ve only encountered his more contemplative, acoustic side on record, his live shows with his band, The Fixin’s, often come as a revelation. They rock. Hard. This disconnect between recorded output and electrifying stage presence is precisely what Cobb aims to rectify with his upcoming album, Ain’t Rocked in a While, set to drop on July 11th via Ol’ Buddy Records/Thirty Tigers. And if the new single, “Even If It’s Broke,” is any indication, fans are in for a powerful, unvarnished dose of Cobb and his band’s true grit.
“Even If It’s Broke” is more than just a new song; it’s a peek into the soul of an artist who has dedicated his life to his craft. Co-written with his longtime guitarist, MattMan McDaniel, the track is, as Cobb himself puts it, “kinda my story — stickin’ with music all this time and still chasin’ it.” It’s a relatable anthem for anyone who’s poured their heart into a passion, even when the returns aren’t always immediate or tangible. That unwavering belief in something, despite its imperfections or challenges, is a sentiment that resonates deeply, making the song instantly personal for listeners. This isn’t just about the music industry; it’s about the relentless pursuit of anything you genuinely love.
The release of “Even If It’s Broke” follows the album’s title track, “Ain’t Rocked in a While,” which has already garnered significant buzz. Critics have praised its “rocking southern soul” and “fuzzy garage rock tune” with “psychedelic tendencies.” This initial taste clearly set the stage for an album that embraces the heavier influences of classic rock legends like Black Sabbath, Metallica, and AC/DC – bands that shaped Cobb’s musical upbringing. This isn’t a departure from his roots, but rather an expansion, a more complete picture of the artist.
What makes Ain’t Rocked in a While particularly exciting is that it’s the first project Cobb has recorded with The Fixin’s – Len Clark on drums, Matt McDaniel on guitars, and Josh Williams on bass. Recorded live to tape at The Black Palace in Springfield, Missouri, the album promises to capture the raw, electric energy that defines their live performances. This approach, favoring the unvarnished authenticity of a live take, speaks volumes about Cobb’s desire to present his music in its truest form, showcasing the undeniable chemistry he shares with his band. It’s an album designed to be a “reference” for what people can expect when they come to a Brent Cobb & The Fixin’s show – a far cry from a quiet, contemplative singer-songwriter set.
Beyond his new music, Cobb’s prolific career continues to impress. His 2023 album, Southern Star, was a celebrated return to his Georgia roots, earning accolades from publications like Rolling Stone and No Depression for its authentic portrayal of Southern life. And his talents extend far beyond his own recordings; he’s a highly sought-after songwriter, with cuts by major artists such as Luke Combs, Keith Urban, and Miranda Lambert, among many others. His song “Snakebite” was recently featured in Paramount’s Landman, and he even ventured into children’s literature with his 2021 book, Little Stuff, inspired by his song of the same name.
With Ain’t Rocked in a While on the horizon, Brent Cobb & The Fixin’s are gearing up for an extensive headline tour. Kicking off in June and running through October, the tour will bring their electrifying live show to iconic venues across the country, including New York’s Bowery Ballroom, Los Angeles’ Troubadour, and Chicago’s Joe’s on Weed St. This tour offers a prime opportunity to experience firsthand the dynamic blend of timeless country storytelling and robust rock energy that defines this new chapter for Brent Cobb.