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Chris Mara
c/o Bitchin' Music Reviews
P.O. Box 41422
Nashville, Tn. 37204



Artist: Frank Carillo & the Bandoleros
Project Name: Bad Out There
Label: Jezebel Records
Artist Site: Frank Carillo

It’s around noon on a Friday. I’m just starting my second pot of coffee and I’m thinking about switching from caffeine to whiskey. Why? Well, there’s something about this record that makes me want to kick back in a dimly lit room, sip whiskey from a thick-walled glass and nod my head understandingly to songs that tastefully blend Carillo’s rebellious spirit with the acceptance of circumstances beyond his control.

Despite the implausible name “Frank Carillo and the Bandoleros”; Frank Carillo is one of the most believable artists I’ve heard in quite a while. Why? Well, now it’s after 2pm and I’m halfway through my third glass of whiskey, so it’s a bit hard for me to find the right…um…well…how do you say…ah, yes, words, to articulate my point. I guess a lot of it has to do with his gravelly whiskey-soaked voice. (mmm….whiskey) It makes me ponder what would happen if he coughed really hard. I think if he did, he’d cough up a huge phlegm-ball named Spencer that would turn to him and say (in a gravelly voice of course) “Thanks for all the good times” and slither towards the door; leaving Carillo to sing like Justin Timberlake from that day on.

Along with the sincere vocals, the organic (not to be confused with “lo fi”), open and inviting production of the album perfectly matches the bluesy/rootsy feel of the songs, and goes a long way towards solidifying his believability by setting the perfect sonic backdrop for his stories. The production also really helps to pull the listener in, instead of being too apparent and eventually alienating the listener. It’s very cool; and everything is done to better showcase the songs. Kudos folks-good job.

"Licensed from Chris Mara"














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