Review: Bill Kirchen Reveals Surprising News – Rock & Blues Muse
Bill Kirchen, known for his Telecaster twang, began his music career as a key member of the original Commander Cody and his Lost Planet Airmen group in the late 1960s. With an eclectic mix of country, rockabilly, Western swing, and trucking tunes, the band brought a unique sound to audiences, opening for iconic acts like the Allman Brothers Band and the Grateful Dead. Their hit track “Hot Rod Lincoln,” featuring Kirchen’s guitar, remains a fan favorite to this day.
Despite his successful career with various bands and supporting acts like Nick Lowe and Elvis Costello, Kirchen took a hiatus from releasing music under his name for almost a decade. However, his musical drought ends with the upcoming release of ‘Cat Out of the Bag’ on May 25. The title of the album hints at Kirchen breaking out of his musical comfort zone and exploring new territories.
The album kicks off with the title track, showcasing a blend of Americana and Tom Petty-inspired rock. Kirchen’s intentions to venture into fresh musical landscapes are evident as he belts out the lyrics, “I’m all packed up and raring to go.” In “Her Gone is Goodbye,” he delves into Johnny Cash territory, delivering a melancholic story-song with baritone vocals and reverberating guitar, narrating the tale of a man grappling with his wife’s departure.
As the album progresses, Kirchen showcases his versatility with tracks like “Mercy Light,” where he crafts a thunderous, slow rock anthem describing a soul departing the body. “Inside My Baby’s Heart” exudes tenderness with moaning pedal steel and Kirchen’s heartfelt vocals, while “One More Ride” sees Jimmie Dale Gilmore providing emotional vocals on a touching track about a friend’s passing.
Despite the emotional depth of some tracks, Kirchen doesn’t stray far from his signature twang-heavy style. The upbeat, rockabilly thump of “Black Sheep” and the fiery rocker “Honky-Tonk Hellfire,” paying homage to Jerry Lee Lewis with guest vocals by Linda Gail Lewis, serve as reminders of Kirchen’s rock and roll roots. “Highway to Heaven” ties the album together with a storytelling narrative about a friend named Jerry Nine embarking on a heavenly journey.
With ‘Cat Out of the Bag,’ Bill Kirchen delivers a compelling collection that is sure to captivate old fans and attract new listeners. His vocal and instrumental prowess shines through, showcasing his growth while staying true to the earthy, retro qualities that define his musical style. Kirchen’s return to the Americana scene is a welcome one, reigniting his place in the genre he helped shape.