This is the third album from The Molenes, a four piece from New England fronted by singer-songwriter and guitarist Dave Hunter.
It is described as concept album telling "a people's history of America" covering themes of "disenfranchisement and loss". So when Hunter sings "we built this thing from blood and bone" on the opening track, this could be read either as a tale of the nation or as autobiographical reference to the band, or perhaps a bit of both.
Good Tines Comin' is the type of record that illustrates how little Alt.Country has evolved since Uncle Tupelo disbanded in 1994. The guitar driven country/roots/rock 'no depression' sound is essentially the same as it ever was.
As if in recognition of this fact, the band called upon the services of producer, Paul Q. Kolderie, to mix the album, a man who ,not coincidentally, once worked with Tweedy, Farrar and co.
The end result is a predictable but solid set of "rock'n'roll with twang" tunes.
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A highlight is the three minute blast of Rockin' Monophonic; a hymn to FM radio and perfect drive-time music.
The band give themselves a longer workout on the album centrepiece,Four Feet Under, after which they need a Miracle Cure ("I got aches in places I can't name".
All this country fuelled roots-rock is enhanced by some slick pedal steel guitar from Bruce Derr, especially on the latter track and on the Western swing number 'Hot Damn'. It also features prominently on the title tune (which, curiously, is a hidden track).
The Molenes are a raw, no-nonsense band who are evidently not out to reinvent the wheel, simply to make sure it is kept well oiled. Job done.
The Molenes' Website
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