New Music Critique: Primal Kings

Production9
Lyrics7
Music7
Vocals8
Musicianship9
8

Just another rootsy blues-rock outfit? Nope. Primal Kings, in fact, bring a whole sonic concept to their recordings. It’s a thick, rich sound slathered in a swampy, savory gravy to create an atmosphere in which the band’s lead vocalist and blues harp player seem to be coming at you from deep inside the haunted house of the blues. It’s gothic, spooky and sexy, as in the not-so-subtle “Designated Driver.” Each recording has terrific tones and textures, including steely dobro (“County Line”) and a psychedelic guitar interlude in “Walls,” a song that could be a good fit for an action flick. Remarkably, the mix allows lead vocals to crackle through clearly and with real character for an impact that doesn’t quit.

Contact: [email protected]
Web: primalkings.com

Seeking: Label, Booking, Film/TV

Style: Alternative Roots/Rock