I recently had an argument with a friend about whether The Pistoleros or the Chimeras came first. Deep down I knew that I was right, but my friend was so convinced that I patronizingly allowed him a momentary victory. Well I checked some facts and I feel that it is my duty to make it clear that The Chimeras came before the Pistoleros. And The Pistoleros, Dead Hot Workshop, and the Gin Blossoms begat The Persuaders…
I was shocked at how much I genuinely liked The Persuaders' music. The 10-track “recorded before they ever played a gig” album is honestly good. From the beginning of Ghost Ship Sailors, I was struck by the power behind this album. It is dark and pained and pleasantly unexpected. The album has a rough-around-the-edges, dirty rocknroll sound that was left behind several years ago but has found relevance in today's scene. The members of Persuaders' all-star line up have succeeded where many others of the era fall short in proving that the crest that broke of the mid-90s was not for nothing.
While The Persuaders certainly play sweet melodies, the other side of the coin is a unique kick you in the face style of Arizona rock and roll that can not be ignored. The song “Drove It” revives the feeling of falling in love with Arizona music 18 years ago.
I also forgot how much I like Lawrence Zubia’s vocals. It’s the type of voice that made cigarettes appealing to me when I wanted to be a teenage rockstar.
While, for me, there are some hits and misses, there are many more fantastic songs worthy of repetition and praise than a bullshit cynical eye. And I’m sure the others will grow on me. I am glad that there is a force driving these guys to continue making music. The Persuaders provide a new and fresh revival of a sound missed and certainly not forgotten.
The CD release is May 12th at Tempe Tavern with Los Guys and Tramps & Thieves.
