The Incorruptibles' "Highway Hypnosis": A Sonic Journey to Retro Joy
- Blues Beat
 - Jun 26, 2023
 - 2 min read
 

The Incorruptibles – Highway Hypnosis
Self release
12 songs time – 37:53
From the heartland of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, emerges a musical surprise in the form of The Incorruptibles and their latest release, "Highway Hypnosis." With twelve tracks spanning just under 38 minutes, the album is a delightful journey into the world of midwestern pop-meets-rockabilly, delivered with infectious energy and a retro vibe that harkens back to the heyday of feel-good rock.
Led by vocalist-guitarist Jimmy McCarthy, The Incorruptibles infuse their music with an exuberant, happy-go-lucky spirit reminiscent of other retro-leaning bands.
Amy Ashby on upright and electric bass, along with vocals, and Bill Siebert on drums, complete the trio's core lineup. The album, a self-release, introduces listeners to a sonic palette enriched by occasional Hammond organ and saxophone, providing dynamic textures to their guitar-bass-drums foundation.
"Highway Hypnosis" opens with its eponymous instrumental track, a surf music-inspired piece that sets the tone for the album. Jimmy McCarthy's guitar work takes center stage, delivering a joyous and spirited performance. The listener is immediately drawn into the band's musical frenzy, heightened by Jimmy Voegeli's Hammond organ contributions.
The retro references continue with "Welcome To The Show," a sock-hoppy track that captures the essence of a bygone era with nostalgic mentions of ponytails, circle skirts, and bowling shirts. Rod Keyzer adds a touch of the fifties with a saxophone solo. "Another Lonely Night" follows, with Jimmy McCarthy on vocals, while Amy Ashby provides backing vocals on the upbeat ballad.
"High Roller" showcases Amy Ashby taking over vocal duties and slap bass, accompanied by a high-spirited organ solo from Jimmy Voegeli. "Goin' To The August Jam" pays rockabilly homage to a Southern Rock festival, featuring Jimmy McCarthy's versatile guitar work. Amy's earnest and endearing voice takes the spotlight on "Gotta Go," a slow-burning piece with a Leslie speaker-infused guitar, offering warmth to the composition.
"Redheaded Stepchild" keeps the rockabilly vein alive, highlighting Amy's vocals and Jimmy's creative guitar with great tone. "Champagne And Caviar" takes a turn with an ode to high living, featuring Amy on vocals and upright bass. The album continues with Amy leading on the exhilarating "The Grind," and Jimmy resuming vocal duties on "Don't Misjudge Me," a blues-meets-rockabilly track that showcases his guitar skills.
Closing the album is the dual-vocal "Miserable Together," a misery-loves-company ode that wraps up the sonic journey offered by The Incorruptibles.
"Highway Hypnosis" is a testament to well-executed midwestern pop-meets-rockabilly, where the feel-good vibes are as infectious as the guitar antics. Jimmy McCarthy's guitar work stands out as a thing of aural beauty, delivering joy and energy throughout the album.
The Incorruptibles offer a refreshing blend of retro-inspired sounds, proving that their music is not just a blast from the past but a lively celebration of the timeless joy found in rock and roll. In the realm of feel-good, guitar-driven music, The Incorruptibles confidently make their mark with "Highway Hypnosis." Great stuff indeed!



Comments