Gringo Star: All Y’All

A nice name, isn’t it, you see…oh nevermind. This Atlanta band sounds like The Von Bondies and other garage rock groups of that ilk. However they seem to possess a bit more spit and polish on the opening title track and “Up And Down”, both of which resemble a poor man’s version of The Kinks. Produced by Ben H. Allen (he of Animal Collective and Gnarls Barkley fame), the record also has touches of Sun Records chugging rockabilly on “Ask Me Why” and the simply, Fratellis-ish “Come On Now”. But they definitely shine and show a new side on the gorgeous alt.country-tinged “Transmission” and the kooky but clever “All Day Long” and “Holding Onto Hate”, the latter sounding like it came from Spoon’s songbook. Another little gem here is the rootsy “Eve Of Your Expression” which also is a keeper. On the whole, it’s something Ringo would be proud of.