36¢

These guys are the real deal. Looking forward to their next album.

Starting boldly with the somber "Hookers and Blow"--a title that comes from a joke response to what the "dull" and happily domesticated brothers did last night--36 cents is the latest album to offer revealing glimpses into the lives of Kevin and Micheal Bacon, despite it clearly being written from a character's vantage point, as if Kevin was playing a role. Otherwise the album, like the rest of the Bacon Brothers' repertoire is a mix of sentimental, soulful, and stirring tracks. The title song, 36 cents is an homage to struggling songwriters that quickly has audiences tapping their feet and singing along. Accompanied by Michael on cello, 493 Miles, the next track, is a sweet song of marriage and empty nest syndrome that will remind fans of "10 Years in Mexico" and "Don't Lose Me Boy" from earlier albums. Kevin probably insisted on juxtaposing that song with his country rock song "Get a Little." A cover of Alannis Morrisette's You Learn is refreshingly original, and nicely followed up by Kevin's "Wonderful Day", a bittersweet optimistic tune of everyday troubles. Musically, my favorite song is "Above the Clouds," a collaboration with Daryl Hall, parts of which make me swear I'm hearing Aaron Neville. Then there's the fun, almost whimsical "New England Girls" that sounds like a song The Beach Boys could easily play as their own. If my two cents are worth anything, you'll pick up this album and discover The Bacon Brothers' latest impressive mix of folk, rock, country, and soul when you're looking for a change from your current mix of music.

Ten originals and two covers, "36¢" spans full-on rock. blues, country, pop, and yes, folk inflections. This collection melds introspection (often humorous, sometimes darkly so) with passionate vocals and melodies that stay with you and make you glad they do. Kevin and Michael Bacon are backed up by a fabulous band: Ira Siegel on guitars, Frank Vilardi on drums, Joe Mennonna on keyboards, and Paul Guzzone on bass--each one a major talent himself. Together with the Bros themselves, they make this album shine! Of the originals, the title tune, "493 Miles," "Shade," and"New England Girls" are each alone worth the price of admission, as are the fantastic covers of Alanis Morissette's "You Learn" and Paul Weller's "Above the Clouds"; but all the tunes are wonderful and well worth your attention. "Hookers and Blow" and "Wonderful Day" are meditations on the demons that can wreck your day or even your life; "Get A Little" is a honky-tonkish take on "getting in touch with [one's] inner child." You'll soon find yourself singing right along. I could go on, but that'd keep you from listening to "36¢"! Go get it! You won't regret it!

Seen this group 3 times now. The music is heartfelt, performed with passion. Lyrics are terrific, band is tight. It's an awesome show. Some songs should be bigger hits than they are. I believe bigger things to come from this group of long-time friends and musicians!!

I saw ya'll live at The Harvester Performance Center in VA, ya'll were AMAZING, I loved all the songs, especially 493 Miles! ☺️☺️☺️

Besides the fact it's Kevin Bacon, they really have soul when they sing and know how to rock it out. Great Band!

This album gives me life. It just takes my breath away. They are going to be the next big thing for sure.