True Sounds of Liberty (their proper moniker) have been alive and kicking for some 25 years now…and it shows. Though not in the way one might think. While it seems age has weakened some of their contemporaries' spirit, TSOL have gotten stronger, more angry and musically dangerous.
Singer Jack Grisham's vocals (still) hit like acid intent on corroding the pillars of an unjust system. The guitar is a weapon in the hands of Ron Emory, with chords and notes stabbing like a prison shank after Mike Roche's pounding bass knocks you to the ground. Tiny's beats hit like a-bombs (Barnes would be proud) and are the final puzzle piece in their devastating live show.
Needless to say, we were stoked to have TSOL by the HQ while they dried out from the hard rain beating down outside. Aside from being covered in tats themselves, the band embodies a lot of what Sailor Jerry is all about: non-conformity and freedom. After taking a pic on the couch (seems to be becoming a bit of a tradition isn't?) the band went on to pummel the Northstar in way I described above. Go see this band by all means necessary.
Band Site: truesoundsofliberty.com
Label Site: Nitro Records
All photos and content by Justin Rosenthal