Chris Wollard and The Ship Thieves
Chris Wollard and The Ship Thieves
No Idea Records
8/10
Chris Wollard, guitarist for Hot Water Music, takes a break from simply shredding to record a bit more melodic, country-tinged, PBR-swilling album that is another in the growing list of “solo” albums and side projects from the bands that make fat bearded punks drool. From Ben Nichols (Lucero), to Chuck Ragan (Also Hot Water Music), to Sundowner (Chris from The Lawrence Arms/The Falcon) and Tom Gabel (Against Me!), Chris Wollard is among friends. Straying from the gritty sounds that made HWM famous, Wollard goes in the direction of Bluegrass to create a sound completely different than anything I have associated with involving No Idea Records. It’s a solid transition, and Wollard has the voice to back up his sweet guitar work. “You Always Leave” is probably the epitome of the album’s sound, while “Hey B” is up there in the world of ballads. If you are like me and hate change, opt for “All the Things You Know,” as it is one of the more up-tempo jams on the album. Plus, it’s on colored vinyl. Bonus.
–Jonathan Yost