Rick Monroe & The Hitmen (from the album Six Gun Soul

Rick Monroe & The Hitmen (from the album Six Gun Soul

Rick Monroe & The Hitmen (from the album Six Gun Soul available on Label Group Records) (by Lee Zimmerman)
Rick Monroe & The Hitmen claim to have invented a new genre for themselves, one they refer to as ‘Blue Jean Rock’, a style spawned from their rural roots but not necessarily that of a strictly down-home variety. To be sure, there’s no qualification needed as far as their raucous, rollicking approach, but the fact that they also manage to keep a certain country credence makes that descriptive handle all the more incisive.
A well-seasoned performer who’s taken the stage in every U.S. state, as well as Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico — not to mention some 17 countries — Monroe and his bandmates — Bobby Perkins (guitar), Alan Beeler (bass), and Jason Bohl (drums) — clearly possess the confidence needed to make the most of a barnstorming sound. They certainly make that clear courtesy of the aptly dubbed Six Gun Soul, allowing for a steady stream of rowdy Rockers well stocked with both verve and volume. The gruff sound of “Moonshine Man”, the steady stomp of the title track, and the dramatic and defiant “Let’s Get Drunk” each possess the edge and intensity that find them to live up to those descriptive song titles. And while certain tracks allow for a momentary respite — a meditative “God’s Ear” and the closing rumination of “Which Way Is Home” — the edge and attitude are intrinsically intact throughout.
In essence, Rick Monroe and The Hitmen provide ideal entertainment, especially for those who appreciate a band that can come out with guns a’blazin’ and an ample supply of fully fueled frenzy. It’s attitude that counts, and in this particular case, those edgy efforts are credibly conceived. In some regard, they could be considered an Americana derivative of AC/DC, with so much pomp and prowess included. Ideal entertainment for a booze-fueled, rowdy Saturday night music fest, Six Gun Soul fires on all cylinders. Suffice it to say, a tougher and more tenacious bunch would be hard to actually imagine. (by Lee Zimmerman)
 
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