Bass Drum of Death Say I Won’t

Since the emergence of rock and roll in the mid-1950s, there have been countless artists who have sought to preserve the raw, rebellious spirit that defined the genre. From Jon Spencer’s tributes to Dan Sartain’s garage-rockabilly sounds, to Kelly Stoltz’s power-pop explorations and The Black Keys’ pristine nods to the past, the rough energy of rock continues to inspire and excite listeners today.

Enter Bass Drum of Death, a Mississippi-based trio that has returned with its fifth album, “Say I Won’t,” on Fat Possum records. The lead singer, John Barrett, took a step back from the big city to return to his hometown, resulting in a refreshed and reinvigorated sound for the band.

For the first time, Barrett has opened up the creative process, inviting his touring group to contribute to the live recordings of the album. The end result is a powerhouse of music, with punchy lyrics and a relentless energy. The opening track “No Soul” is a lesson in raw power, while “Too Cold To Hold” draws on the desert-blues of ZZ Top.

The swampy “Say Your Prayers” features Royal Blood’s Mike Kerr and is a haunting tale, full of dark imagery and foreboding. The album as a whole is a testament to the enduring appeal of rock and roll, and Bass Drum of Death’s commitment to preserving its raw and rebellious roots.