Name Sayers’ latest album, “Joyboys In The Grindhouse“, masterfully crafted under the production guidance of Grammy nominee Grant Eppley, takes listeners on an eclectic musical journey. A distinct evolution for the band, the album seamlessly weaves together a tapestry of genres ranging from Psych Rock and Hip Hop to Synth Pop and Cumbia. This audacious experimentation pays off as the album brings a vibrant freshness to Name Sayers’ sound.
The collaborative spirit of “Joyboys In The Grindhouse” shines through with guest appearances from luminaries like guitarist Wayne Kramer of The MC5, Brooklyn rapper Chris Conde, and Orlando rapper E-Turn. The album’s sonic landscape is inhabited by captivating pop arrangements, often draped around unexpected hooks that stick to the mind.
The band’s core members, including vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Devin James Fry, bassist Grant Himmler, guitarist Garrett Hellman, and drummer Marc Henry, display their creative prowess, forging a cohesive identity that contrasts their earlier work as Salesman. With meticulous attention to detail, the album transitions effortlessly between sonic realms, creating a uniquely cohesive listening experience.
Lyrically, “Joyboys In The Grindhouse” delves into a range of themes, from introspective explorations of self-medication for social anxiety to the resilience born from political resistance. The album’s title is a clever nod to both the project’s campy undertones and Fry’s day job as a surgical instrument sharpener. This creative duality is further underscored by the album cover, photographed with an artful yet unsettling elegance by Dylan O’Connor.
As Name Sayers balances on the precipice of contrasting sounds and inspirations, “Joyboys In The Grindhouse” emerges as a bold declaration of their sonic evolution. The meticulous curation of 49 songs into the final 11 on the album speaks to the band’s commitment to honing their artistic vision, metaphorically akin to the sharpening process itself.
In essence, “Joyboys In The Grindhouse” captures the essence of modern musical experimentation and delivers a thrilling auditory experience. The album’s ability to blend genres, seamlessly host a diverse array of guest artists, and explore complex themes with lyrical depth showcases Name Sayers’ prowess as innovative creators. This album is not merely a collection of tracks; it’s a testament to the band’s dynamic evolution and musical finesse. Whether it’s the catchy hooks or the thought-provoking lyrics, Name Sayers invites listeners into their vividly imaginative world through “Joyboys In The Grindhouse“.
