Scott “Deluxe” Drake
Grand mal
Rankoutsider Records

Scott Drake returns with this sophomore solo disc. It’s more of what you would expect from the former Humpers/Vice Principals/Suicide Kings front man–straight forward rock n’ roll–but different… different even from his first solo effort World’s Strongest Man (Dionysus, 2005). His featured backing band is Portland, OR based 8ft. Tender, which features original Humpers guitarist Jeff Fieldhouse. The sound is grittier, more raw than WSM and lacks the carnival barker/freak show theme of said album (tho’ there are multiple references to international travel, spies and the color gray). The lyrics are more metaphorical than most Humpers’ songs and delivered with that cutting insight and sarcasm you would expect from Drake. His version of “Jezebel” is by far the most sinister I’ve heard (and that accordion creeps me out). I definitely like this album and think it gets better with each listen, but I prefer WSM. It might be the flangey/wah-wah pedals used, as I’m not a fan of that sound. “Cadiz Arms” is my favorite and should go on your next mix tape/CD/whatever.

Doesn’t Rock l Kinda Rocks l Rocks l Really Rocks