Last year Ryan Allen‘s band Extra Arms released the successful full-length What Is Even Happening Right Now?, a question we’ve all asked ourselves during the global pandemic. Just before that strange period, the American singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist had started the creation of a new rock ‘n’ roll concept album for Extra Arms around the question of what it would be like if there was only one rock band left on earth. Covid forced the plans to change, but the idea was too good to let go, so The Last Rock Band has become a solo LP with Allen responsible for all instruments, as well as the vocals. How can you live if rock is dead, Allen sings in the title track that opens the record. Over the ten energetic tracks here it becomes increasingly clear that this isn’t possible, most clearly in the deliberately fabricated low point Bought A Computer, which makes it abundantly clear that we need real guitars, drums and bass. In 30 minutes a story of ten exciting chapters is unfolded, with each track having a slightly different feel and sound in line with the relatable lyrics. You can file the result under punk rock or power pop, if it were a book under fiction.
You and I know that rock music is alive and kicking – daily we share cool new releases with you to back up that statement – but those who look at the lists of the most streamed artists might think otherwise. Your and my preference is in our blood, just listen to the telling closing tune Because I Have To. That’s simply how it is.
The Last Rock Band, produced by Ryan Allen & Geoff Michael, is out now digitally, on cassette and CD through Setterwind Records.
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