68-75 – Stay On The Ride (Album Review)

Last year, I introduced you to the Rocker’s Dozen, which was a list of several rock bands that could possibly be igniting a rock ‘n’ roll revival of sorts. One of those bands, 68-75, are about to release their first full-length album titled Stay On The Ride. If you aren’t familiar with 68-75, you can read my review of their EP here. If you’re a fan of that classic rock vibe, meet your new favorite band.

68-75 brings a lot of the same elements that made us fall in love with them before. This time though, we get nine tracks to please our ear holes. I’ll hit a few of my favorites, the rest…is up to you to discover.

From the first note of Kicking Down The Stalls, you know exactly what you’re getting with this song. A grooving rock track that screams as an opener. A great way to start the record.

Deal With The Devil is up next. Musically, the track gives me a great Free vibe. You know, the legendary band fronted by Bad Company’s Paul Rodgers. Vocally, Suzanne Sledge delivers a very singable chorus, albeit with lyrics that are a little cliche. Once you get past that, it’s a very solid track.

With Camel’s Back, you again enter into that cliche lyrical territory, but the track is just too damn good for that to be a concern. With probably my favorite riff on the record, guitarist Andrew Cylar cements himself as a badass in my book. Check out an unmastered studio cut below:

The most intriguing and complete song on the album is Detroit. The slow-churning blues groove is perfect. While Suzanne snarls her way through a lyrical journey about harder times. With the added atmospheric element of the organ, this track serves as a true centerpiece on the album.

It’s Only Tuesday returns us to those classic vibes. Reminiscent of The Faces or early Rolling Stones, the track delivers a solid boot to the ass. For me, the dynamic duo of drummer Matt Kotheimer and bassist Matt Sickles provide the backbone that makes this track shine.

The title track Stay On The Ride takes center stage next. Much like Deal With The Devil, I get a Free vibe. Which in my opinion is never a bad thing. It’s a mid-tempo tune that has a nice, easy feel to it.

What 68-75 does best is being themselves. They don’t overwork a song. The production is minimal. The music does the talking. I will say this though, I think there should be a roll of duct tape included with this album. Why, you ask. Because if you aren’t careful you could very well dance your ass off.

Unsung Melody Score: 7 out of 10

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Preview or purchase Stay On The Ride below: