RED TANDY EP
Album Review

Roots rockers The Mother Hips have powered back on to the scene with their EP Red Tandy. Combining their usual earthy tones with an electric group of songs. The album leans more towards pop than usual, the California quartet have a discovered a new source of energy this time around. Anchored by the team of songwriter, vocalist and guitarist, Tim Bluhm, and guitarist Greg Loicano, The Mother Hips delve into the psyche of the lost and lonely. The title-track is a stunning, shimmering rocker that is offered in an original and alternate version. When Bluhm wails "Tandy, Tandy, Tandy", he perfectly captures the sound of heartbreak tossed and burned by the wind. The song is well served by both takes, but the alternate version is a little more true to the wounded spirit of the song.

The other tracks do justice to the hard-working band as well. "Colonized" finds The Mother Hips venturing into hard-rocking territory as they back their lyrics with a rough around the edges sound. The track may not have pretty harmonies like "Red Tandy", but it could give retro rock fans a reason to cruise on by for a listen. "Blue Tomorrow" earns is the EP's most introspective track. "I'm a full-grown man / Looking for a plan" sings Loiacono and the message hits home. It's delivered more with a whisper than a blow to the head, but the point is still well taken.

The Mother Hips have made some serious strides since their Green Hills of Earth album and if Red Tandy proves to be an honest indicator of their upcoming full-length, music fans are truly in for a treat.