Musicians are notorious for a couple of things. One of these things are side-projects. Some side projects are just god awful, but some just work. A clear example of this is Brent Hinds of Mastodon’s side project West End Motel which is a great combination of country, western, rock, and soul. The band which was formed sometime around 2002 recorded some songs over a period of seven-year, but disbanded as Tom Cheshire and Hinds both had very busy schedules. But In 2009, the band reunited along with the addition Mike Shina for a one-off as a band called, County Hell. Instead of County Hell being a onetime only thing it truthfully re-launched West End Motel. The band recently released a track entitled “Burn It Down” which will appear on the band’s new album, Only Time Can Tell, which will be out October 30th.
“Burn it Down” is truly a great track that really emphasizes a very soul and groove oriented vibe. The song starts out with a clear sample, but this leads into a very soulful country riff. The vocals then come in with the refrain. The refrain ends quickly, and this is where you hear Hind’s uniquely nasally vocal which is doubled to give it a cool echo effect. I also enjoyed the awesome horns and walking bass lines that are prominent throughout the track. The real highlight of the song however is Hind’s guitar solo which is mixed very dominantly.
This band is great, and I can’t wait to hear the rest of their new material when it comes out later this fall. Make sure you give it a listen. I’m sure you will not be disappointed.
-B. Harlow
Check out to the song which is streaming HERE
