Review: Parker Barrow 'Jukebox Gypsies'

Parker Barrow, band photo, 'Jukebox Gypsies'

Photo: Caylee Robillard

Review: Parker Barrow ‘Jukebox Gypsies’

By Mike O’Cull

Crunching Southern Rock crew Parker Barrow absolutely swings for the fences on their 10-track debut album Jukebox Gypsies.

Set to drop on August 11th, 22023, this much-anticipated record over-delivers on all levels and should do much to jump Parker Barrow up to the highest realms of the roots rock scene. The band combines power-hungry beats, nail-tough guitars, all-pro vocals, and an impossible-to-ignore emotional fire into new rock music that comes across as genuine and true. Their name comes from infamous partners in crime Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow. Much like the band’s outlaw namesake, Parker Barrow makes an immediate impression.

The songs on Jukebox Gypsies tell listeners the story of bandleaders and real-life couple Megan Kane (vocals) and Dylan Turner (drums) over the past four years. The sound of the record draws inspiration from rock legends including The Black Crowes, The Allman Brothers, and the Tedeschi Trucks Band but never imitates anyone. Megan Kane is an explosive and fearless lead vocalist who adds an enormous amount of identity to the band. She has a huge voice and is clearly well-schooled in the art of making top-flight rock and roll.

Band members Manning Feldner (guitar), Alex Bender (guitar), and Michael Beckhart (bass) also give their everything to this music to the point where it’s hard to believe that this is a debut release. The greatest bands, however, often emerge with their vision fully intact on their first effort (think Hendrix and Van Halen) and that seems to be the case here. Parker Barrow vibes like a completely evolved group that knows exactly what they’re doing and who they are, which makes Jukebox Gypsies a wonderful experience from end to end.

Parker Barrow wastes no time and starts the show with the uptempo rocker “Peace, Love, Rock ‘N’ Rollin’.” It’s a song about living life on the road in a rock band, which is never easy, but hits like a love song for the lifestyle. The track sits on a highway-speed groove and features big, brilliant-sounding guitars, and Megan Kane’s energetic vocals. It’s a blasting cut that sets the tone and pace for the rest of the album.

“Count Your Dollars” is riff-based hard rock done right. The hard and heavy intro figure will get fists in the air and leads into a strong verse and chorus that lets Kane loose to shine. PB is extremely bold as an ensemble and the way they all unite in service of this song and should be required listening for all young musicians with dreams of rock and roll glory.

“Count Your Dollars”

A piano-centered ballad, “Back To Birmingham,” slows things down and relates a hard story about having to be on the road while knowing that a beloved grandparent is winding down her days. Anyone who has been away from home for way too long in pursuit of a dream will feel this one in their soul. The tune builds to a mid-tempo peak and sports some fine guitar work from Manning Feldner and Alex Bender. Parker Barrow can sling emotions just as well as they can rock out and the group’s wide range bodes well for the future. Be sure to dig the harmonized guitars in the middle section.

Perhaps the most compelling track on Jukebox Gypsies is the majestic slow jam “Desire.” Kane sends every note and feeling in her body into the vocal mic, letting every passionate sound she makes move every soul who hears her. The band’s arrangement maximizes her impact by using light/heavy dynamic tactics, smooth lead guitar licks, and the wisdom of knowing when to push and when to let go. It’s the epic of the album and will definitely blow out your speakers.

PB’s cover of the Cream classic “Sunshine Of Your Love” is nothing but fun and the way they heavy it up will get your blood moving. The guitar playing on it is truly righteous and adds dimensions Clapton could never have conceived of. Other cuts not to skip include “Good Times Gone Away” and the closer “Where The Bluebird Goes.”

Parker Barrow brings it to us fiercely and honestly on Jukebox Gypsies and gives every indication of having a bright future ahead. Their blend of blues, rock, soul, and everyday life is uncommon and needs to be heard. Get it and listen.