Indianapolis rock duo Brother O’ Brother are busy making solid records in the middle of a state practically ignored by the music industry and touring bands. Their latest, Neon Native, is a prime example of a nearly secret vibrant music scene in the Hoosier state’s capital.
Opening with “R.O.S.E.,” the album immediately submerses you into Brother O’ Brother’s psychedelic blues and powerful riffs. You can hear influences ranging from the Black Keys to the Black Angels in the first few chords. “16 Flowers” brings in a slight punk edge and flattens everything around you. It’s one of the most powerful songs I’ve heard all year. “Sunshine” has a southern rock vibe before it blows up into something you might hear from Zen Guerilla, “Grab the Rope” gets off to a raucous start with soulful yet rough vocals and then a chugging beat that doesn’t let up for the whole track.
“I Got It” continues the rock and roll fury with guitar work that sounds like strings are going to break at any moment. “I Confess” has some psychedelic sludge that I love. “Cardinal” is, on it’s surface, a song about the beauty of a bird, but it’s also about the beauty of a lover, killer guitar work, and slam-tastic beats. “Fever” is just as powerful in its subtlety as we hear about a “sweet love” who inspires guitar chords that Jack White dreams about at night.
Even the acoustic guitar on “White Noise” has a fierce energy to it. “Take Me” brings back the electric fuzz and ups the blues influences. Their cover of David Bowie‘s “Life on Mars” ups the Mick Ronson fuzzed-out guitars and is almost unrecognizable at first (but it’s still great). “Widow Maker” could be a Thin Lizzy B-side.
Don’t let anyone tell you rock and roll is dead. It isn’t. Brother O’ Brother is living proof. They’re one of my favorite discoveries of the year.
Keep your mind open.
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