Teddy and the Rough Riders are back with Down Home, their long-awaited third studio album, which showcases their impressive blend of psychedelic Americana and traditional country influences. The album has been years in the making, with the duo—Jack Quiggins and Ryan Jennings—first beginning work on it during the early days of the pandemic in 2020. What started as a collaborative effort with other musicians, including Sean Thompson’s Weird Ears, eventually turned into a full-fledged project for the band. After recording parts of the album alongside Thompson’s work, they finally wrapped up Down Home in 2021, and now it’s ready to share with the world.
The album’s opening track, “Bullet,” serves as the perfect introduction to the band’s current sound. A mix of rock ‘n’ roll, traditional country, and a dash of Cajun flavor, the song features a fiddling groove paired with fuzzy guitar from Thompson, offering a glimpse into what the rest of the album has in store. With its clever lyrics and solid musicianship, it sets a strong tone for the collection.
At first listen, Down Home may evoke a sense of nostalgia, but make no mistake—this album is far from outdated. It’s a high-energy mix of country, bluegrass, and rock that brings to mind influences like Bill Monroe, The Grateful Dead, and even Hot Tuna. Tracks like “Fast Livin’” and “Trouble Sleeping” showcase the band’s versatility, mixing vintage vibes with modern sensibilities. Each song on the album has its own distinct character, making it a compelling listen from start to finish.
What’s striking about Down Home is the attention to detail in its production. The band and producer Jake Davis have crafted a sound that feels both authentic and fresh. Even songs that might seem out of place at first, like “Catfish Summer,” are handled with skill and creativity, making them stand out. The album is filled with infectious grooves and heartfelt moments, including the poignant “Love After Life,” which displays the band’s ability to balance intricate instrumentation with smart, melodic songwriting.
In a way, Down Home carries the spirit of Jerry Garcia’s finest work, blending country elements with the psychedelic rock that Garcia and The Grateful Dead mastered. The band’s track “Mountain Girl” even nods to Garcia’s legacy. But while the comparisons to Garcia and other like-minded acts are inevitable, Teddy and the Rough Riders make the music their own, infusing it with their own brand of originality and fervor.
Down Home is an album that combines the beauty of traditional country with a modern twist, and it’s a testament to the band’s ability to craft something both timeless and new. With its mix of toe-tapping rhythms, soulful melodies, and a dash of psychedelic flair, it’s an album that proves these musicians are in their prime. – Jason Felton