Steve “Crawdaddy” Crawford, the musical maverick behind Crawdad Crash, has once again dazzled fans with his latest release, “Reign of the Crawdad.” This album, Crawford‘s third, continues to cement his distinctive place in the world of garage punk and rock & roll. Following the success of “Dawn Of The Crawdad Era” and its sequel, this new offering is a testament to Crawford‘s boundless creativity and eclectic musical tastes.
“Reign of the Crawdad” is a vibrant blend of diverse musical styles, reflecting Crawford‘s history as a drummer for the Hodads and a singer/guitarist for the Fontanels. The album’s 12 tracks, featuring nine original songs and three covers, weave together elements of hard rock, country, R&B, surf, reggae, and even Irish folk music into a cohesive and energetic collection.
The album opens with “You’re Not Gonna Like This (The Disclaimer Overture),” a bold introduction that sets the tone for an unpredictable musical journey. Crawford‘s playful and irreverent spirit shines through, daring listeners to expect the unexpected right from the start.
“It’s All Right,” a high-energy cover of the Impressions’ classic, written by Curtis Mayfield, is another highlight. Crawford ramps up the tempo, adds syncopated claps, and incorporates stomps reminiscent of Slade, transforming the song into an exhilarating anthem. Tim Gillespie’s trumpet work adds a vibrant, brassy flair, perfectly complementing Crawford‘s dynamic performance.
The album closes on a high note with “If You Want To Sing Out, Sing Out,” inspired by the cult film “Harold & Maude.” This Cat Stevens cover channels the punk spirit of the Ramones and the Clash, delivering a joyful and rebellious finale that leaves listeners uplifted and energized.
For an independent release, the production quality of “Reign of the Crawdad” is exceptional, the sound is crisp and dynamic. Each instrument is given its space, allowing the intricate layers of music to shine through without overshadowing Crawford‘s gritty vocals. With “Reign of the Crawdad,” Crawdad Crash has once again proven himself a formidable force in independent music.
This album is a must-listen for fans of garage punk and those who appreciate a unique blend of musical styles. It marks a crowning achievement in Crawford‘s impressive career, paving the way for even more exciting musical adventures ahead. Stay tuned with Crawdad Crash on social media for updates and more great music: Facebook – Twitter – Spotify – YouTube – Website.
