A.B. Clyde and the Kittylitters, Smokin’ Catnip

Over the years we’ve seen rock, pop and even rhythm and blues slowly erode into over-commercialized, corporate puppet shows providing music that is extremely sing songy, predictable and highly corporate. I hereby call this new breed of music “Poser Rock” and I want to personally thank all the corporate giants for successfully transforming “Sex Drugs & Rock n Roll” into “Yoga, Vitamins and Nikelback” for everybody. Of course millions of musical lemmings don’t know the difference anyway, but not everyone is entertained. Talking to many music fans out there the response is overwhelming. Give me something new, something that pushes the envelope with a fresh sound that doesn’t sound like Nikelback, Daughtry or Lifehouse.

So across my desk slides the new CD by Los Angeles based A.B Clyde and The Kitty Litters entitled “Smokin’ Catnip.” What I heard put a smile on my face.   It’s a nice high octane record that delivers solid songwriting, amazing playing and a let it all hang out swagger. Clyde reminds me of a modern day Jimmy Buffett on steroids, with maybe a hint of classic Dr. John, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers and even Hank Williams Jr. You will also hear a side of Americana and good ole’ fashioned Rock and Roll. The playing is off the hook and the songwriting is witty and entertaining. If you like the above bands you should definitely check out this CD. My favorite track is probably “Nobody Loves a Fat Man”. CD is available on CD BABY and can be downloaded on I — Tunes.

“Smokin’ Catnip” by A.B. Clyde and the Kitty Litters is clearly a solid release with many feel good rock grooves with a take no prisoner’s R&B guitar driven sound that is just a pleasure to listen to. This CD is comparable to a bottle of Whiskey — every now and then it’s an absolute pleasure to indulge in.   It’s a record that gives us a fresh glimpse at an amazing artist and takes us back a few years — before everything started sounding like — well Nickelback.

By: Kevin Huber

[Rating: 4/5]