[rating=8.00]
Knoxville’s The Dirty Guv’nahs are quickly becoming one of the premiere live acts in the Southeast. They have all the ingredients needed to be a successful rock band: charismatic lead singer, bombastic live show, impressive musicianship, a growing and dedicated fanbase, and workmanlike studio albums. With the release of their fourth album, Hearts on Fire, The Dirty Guv’nahs have finally completed a noteworth album comparable to their live shows, but also an album that would fit right into mainstream airwaves.
Hearts on Fire combines the Guvs brand of Americana rock-n-roll with influences ranging from classic rock of The Rolling Stones to the modern rock leanings of The Avett Brothers. The first track, “Where We Stand” starts off with acoustic guitar and handclaps but quickly builds into a full- fledged rocker with inspiring lyrics about taking a stand for what you believe in. “Morning Light,” is an uplifting southern rock song with a catchy sing-along chorus and soaring guitar work by Cozmo Holloway. The Guv’nahs Motown influence shines through on soulful tracks like “Lovin” and “Slow Down Easy” complete back-up singers and horn section. Lead singer, James Trimble’s heartfelt vocals really shine alongside the electric slide guitar on bluesy heartbreaker numbers like “Dear Jamie” and “Somebody to Love.” The production quality on Hearts on Fire is solid throughout and provides the record a crisp stinging sound while not sacrificing its vintage tone.
