Whiskey Myers: The Rise of a Country Rock Titan
Whiskey Myers is set to ignite the stage at the Santander Arena in Reading this Tuesday, and I couldn’t be more excited. Known for their raw authenticity and high-energy performances, this Texas-born band is not just a musical act; they’re a movement in the country rock genre.
Having steadily built a fervent fanbase over the years, their self-titled fifth album marks a pivotal moment in their career. It’s a culmination of everything they’ve worked towards since they broke onto the mainstream scene with their popular third album, Early Morning Shakes, in 2014. Their track Mud even reached No. 4 on the Billboard country charts in 2016—quite a feat for any band.
The electrifying performance of Whiskey Myers creates unforgettable experiences.
From the State of Texas to Worldwide Recognition
Whiskey Myers truly made their mark when they appeared in Kevin Costner’s hit series Yellowstone in 2018. This feature catapulted their entire discography into the top tiers of the iTunes country charts, serving as a reminder of just how interconnected the worlds of television and music can be.
Despite the newfound fame and sold-out shows that have attracted crowds exceeding 100,000 at festivals like Download in London and Paris, Whiskey Myers has stayed true to their roots. What sets them apart is their decision to independently produce this latest album, allowing them to showcase their distinct sound without the influence of outside producers.
“We loved a lot of things about our producers, but it was time to be set free and do it ourselves,” said band member Jeffers. It’s evident they took great pride in crafting their latest work, blending lessons from past collaborations with their unique vision.
A Creative Renaissance
The recording sessions lasted just 18 days at Sonic Ranch, located just outside El Paso, Texas—a decision that speaks to their commitment to authenticity and creativity. The collaborative spirit they fostered during this time is palpable, making each member’s input valuable in shaping their sound.
“There’s never a right or wrong answer when it comes to ideas. We would run every single idea from everyone,” Jeffers notes. This open-minded approach laid the groundwork for their musical exploration and cohesive storytelling.
Honoring Their Roots
Whiskey Myers isn’t just about crafting tunes; they weave rich narratives that resonate with listeners. Their roots are interlaced with the red dirt of East Texas, where Jeffers, Cannon, and Tate honed their craft together over the decades. Their journey from local icons to chart-toppers is one of perseverance and passion.
Since their 2008 debut Road of Life, the band has seen a significant growth trajectory, achieving their first No. 1 hit on the Texas Music Charts with Firewater in 2011. Yet, it’s Early Morning Shakes that introduced them to a wider audience, earning praise from outlets like Esquire and USA Today, who described their music as having “shades of Led Zeppelin and David Allen Coe.”
A behind-the-scenes look at their recording process at Sonic Ranch.
Rock ‘n’ Roll Energy
What sets Whiskey Myers apart is their eclectic mix of inspirations. They draw as much from Nirvana and Led Zeppelin as from seminal country artists like Waylon Jennings. The exhilarating opener, Die Rockin’, sets the tone for their album, leading into other gripping tracks like Rolling Stone and Gasoline.
As their body of work unfolds over 14 tracks, alternating moods and themes invite listeners on an emotional journey. Songs such as Bury My Bones and California to Carolina explore different facets of the human experience, ranging from sorrow to celebration.
The Art of the Album
Cannon emphasized the importance of creating an album that flows like a meticulously crafted piece of art, akin to a thrilling rollercoaster ride. “An album should be like a whole work of art that moves, comes out strong, ends strong, flows in the middle—like a good show does.” Their commitment to this artistic vision is reflected in each note and lyric.
In a world where the music industry often pushes for quick hits and viral sensations, Whiskey Myers remains steadfast in their resolve to create music that matters. They don’t just want to make hits; they aim to make art that endures—something that speaks to the soul and echoes in the hearts of their fans long after the last note fades.
In Closing
Whiskey Myers is more than a band; they are pioneers in the blending of country, rock, and the storytelling tradition that defines our culture. As they take the stage in Reading, fans can expect a performance that will not only entertain but also unite us in a shared experience of music that is true to its roots.
If you haven’t had the chance to connect with their music yet, now is the time to dive into their discography. From the electric vitality of Die Rockin’ to the poignant mellowness of Bury My Bones, there’s something for everyone in their catalog. I’m eager to see how the new self-titled album resonates with long-time fans and newcomers alike, and I anticipate that this performance will be memorable.
