Beggars Whisky are carving out a niche with their potent blend of rock and blues. Fronted by Mike Daniels, who found renewed purpose after a life-altering car accident, the band takes cues from icons like ZZ Top, The Dead South, and Muddy Waters. The lineup is rounded out by Jeff McCurley (guitar/bass/mandolin), Paul Brown (vocals/guitar), John Cunane (bass/guitar), and Collin McCawley (drums). Together, they craft a sound that’s as gritty as it is soulful, a testament to their diverse influences and collective talent.
Their EP Tap The Keg is a testament to their rock roots with a distinct southern twist permeating most tracks. The opening track, “Sold My Soul,” instantly transports you back to the ’90s, with a palpable grunge influence. The band’s chemistry shines through with well-placed guitar fills and an explosive chorus that begs for a live audience. The grunge influence, layered with southern rock, creates a sound that’s both nostalgic and refreshing, a nod to the past while firmly rooted in the present.
“Insect Ball” stands out as a particularly intriguing track. Its absurd subject matter works brilliantly within the band’s aesthetic. The song begins with distortion swelling from the guitars, and as the kick drum enters, it feels like the track is about to erupt. When the band locks in, the energy is infectious, prompting involuntary head-bobbing. The palm-muted guitars on the chorus are a clever touch, and the band skillfully builds on the song’s momentum, with some especially cool-sounding bass fills adding to the mix. It’s a track that showcases their ability to blend humor with high energy, creating a unique and engaging listening experience.
“Dump Truck” offers a humorous respite, laden with sexual innuendos and not taking itself too seriously. While this track might not be for everyone, it showcases the band’s ability to have fun and not be confined by genre expectations. The playful lyrics and upbeat tempo make it a light-hearted addition to the EP, demonstrating their versatility and willingness to experiment.
“Ride or Die” shifts gears to a more stripped-down, emotive tune that serves as a warm-up to the EP’s closer, “Something I Know About You.” This final track is a heartfelt ballad brimming with nostalgia and reflection, the kind of song that invites introspection. The raw honesty in the lyrics and the warmth in the delivery make it a standout conclusion to the EP. The vocal performance on this track is particularly striking, delivering a sense of vulnerability and sincerity that resonates deeply.
Beggars Whisky prove themselves as a solid band with Tap The Keg. The EP defies expectations in delightful ways, showcasing the band’s chops and versatility. From grunge-influenced rockers to tender ballads, Beggars Whisky demonstrate their ability to traverse different styles while maintaining a cohesive sound. Their musicianship is top-notch, and their ability to convey emotion through their music is impressive. Tap The Keg is a promising release from a band that clearly has a lot to offer. The blend of rock and blues, combined with southern influences, creates a unique and engaging listening experience. Mike Daniels and his bandmates bring a sense of authenticity and passion to their music that is both refreshing and compelling. With their talent and dedication, Beggars Whisky are definitely a band to watch. Their ability to surprise and delight with their music leaves listeners eagerly anticipating what they will come up with next. This EP not only showcases their current prowess but also hints at the potential for even greater things to come.
Garth Thomas