I hate when this happens: one of my favorite bands drops a new record, and I only stumble on it weeks later. In this case, there are excuses—the Cowboys haven’t put it on Bandcamp (yet?), there’s no physical release until 2026, and there’s no label pushing promo. Still, missing out on Captain Easy’s Downfall at first stings, because it’s glorious.

No two Cowboys records are the same, but you always get quirky, catchy melodies that run the gamut from punk to classic rock ’n’ roll. Don’t be surprised when they throw a curveball like Donzell’s Crystal Ball—a two-minute rock opera equal parts bubblegum and psych pop. Or when they rip into late-’70s pop-punk jolts like Sugar in the Shoe and Not a Lot Goin’ On, both buzzing with Undertones/Dickies energy.

But what really stands out is the quality. Behind the playful exterior is sharp, masterful songwriting—the standout Pensacola is proof enough. With 19 tracks of variety and hooks, this might be my favorite Cowboys record yet.

Add to wantlist: Bandcamp || The Cowboys